Every Saturday — a new list. This week, we continue the theme started in last week's article on the best alternatives to the Rolex GMT-Master II by discussing the best replacements for the Rolex Explorer II.
This is a logical step, as both models offer similar functionality. However, they are fundamentally different in character and appearance. The GMT-Master reflects Pan Am aviation history, while the Explorer II is a niche tool for spelunking. Despite this, the Explorer II has become an iconic chronometer in the brand's collection. But what if you are not fond of the current Rolex Explorer II? We have prepared a selection of five best alternatives. Take a look.
Why Consider Alternatives to the Rolex Explorer II
In the previous article on the GMT-Master II, some readers noted that they do not like the two-tone rotating bezel for indicating day and night. This is understandable. Personally, I like this design when executed well, but I am also drawn to the more understated style of the Explorer II with its fixed steel bezel. So, I was delighted to compile a list of five worthy alternatives to the Rolex Explorer II. Without further ado — let's dive into the review.
Grand Seiko SBGE285 "Mist Flake"
Our first choice is obvious. The Grand Seiko SBGE285 "Mist Flake" made a splash upon its debut in 2022. It is a magnificent watch highly valued by our team. With a case size of 41 mm by 48.3 mm and a thickness of 13.9 mm, it seems hefty but feels comfortable on the wrist.
The two key factors: first, the case is made of lightweight titanium, significantly reducing weight. Second, the model is part of the Evolution 9 series with a modern, elegantly sculpted case that fits perfectly on the wrist. The result is the SBGE285 — a contemporary GMT with an exquisite design.
The "Mist Flake" dial is a poetic gray-white with a textured effect that creates mystical depth and expressiveness. It serves as the perfect backdrop for the hands and hour markers, crafted with clear shapes and luminescent filling. The double marker at 12 o'clock draws special attention — a design decision that adds character.
The hands include a shortened hour hand, sharp minute hand, slim second hand, and an arrow-shaped GMT hand with a cut-off tip that harmonizes with the indices. The dial also features a power reserve indicator, integrated neatly and unobtrusively.
The model is equipped with the Grand Seiko Spring Drive caliber 9R66, with a smooth second-hand motion, 72-hour power reserve, and accuracy of ±15 seconds per month. It is the ideal mechanism for modern GMTs priced around €9,500. Previously, there was the SBGE283 version with a black dial, but it has been discontinued, leaving only the SBGE285 available — one of the best GMTs on the market.
Tudor Black Bay Pro
An obvious contender for the list is the Tudor Black Bay Pro. If you are a regular reader of Onewatch, you know I have a special relationship with these watches. Upon release in 2022, the design was clearly inspired by the Explorer II ref. 1655 — one of my favorite Rolex models. This meant that Tudor used the "Freccione" to create a GMT. However, after personally encountering the watch, my opinion changed — the designers added enough signature Tudor details to ensure the model does not feel like a copy.
The Black Bay Pro became a hit for Tudor, and in 2025, a version with a white opaline dial appeared. The watch has a stainless steel case, 39 mm in diameter, 47 mm lug-to-lug, and 14.6 mm thick. The thickness makes the watch quite hefty, deterring some buyers. However, Tudor has already proven with the Black Bay 58 GMT that it can create thinner models.
I spent most of 2024 wearing the Black Bay Pro, and its size did not bother me — my 18.5 cm wrist pairs well with the dimensions. I like the dial design with 3D luminescent blocks as indices and Tudor's signature "snowflake" hands, which set the Black Bay Pro apart from the Rolex Explorer II. A special detail is the dark yellow GMT hand, harmonizing with the color of the markers.
Both versions feature the Tudor MT5652 caliber — a COSC-certified automatic with a silicon balance spring and 70-hour power reserve. It is a reliable mechanism for GMT. In the event of an update, a logical step would be to transition to the METAS Master Chronometer MT5450-U, which would allow for a reduced case thickness. For now, the Black Bay Pro at €4,600 on a bracelet is an excellent choice for those seeking a GMT with a fixed steel bezel.
Christopher Ward C63 Sealander GMT
Christopher Ward offers several affordable alternatives to the Rolex Explorer II. We could have chosen the recently introduced C63 Sealander Extreme GMT, but it resembles the Tudor Pelagos FXD GMT more closely on a strap, with the Explorer II similarity only manifesting on a bracelet. Therefore, we selected another pair from the same collection — the 36 mm and 39 mm versions of the C63 Sealander GMT, which better convey the Explorer II's aesthetics.
We compared both sizes in the office. Both are excellent GMTs, with the choice depending on personal preference. The 36 mm model feels more proportional and slightly thinner: 11.15 mm thick, 43 mm lug-to-lug, versus 11.85 mm and 45.8 mm respectively for the 39 mm. Both variants have a white dial, though blue versions are also available. We recommend the white — it looks fresh and legible.
Inside is the automatic Sellita SW330-2 caliber, operating at 28,800 vibrations per hour with a 56-hour power reserve. It is a classic GMT mechanism without separate local time adjustment, but reliable and proven. Christopher Ward offers the watches on leather or rubber straps, as well as on the signature Consort (five-row) and Bader (three-row) bracelets. We prefer the Bader bracelet in the Oyster style — one of the best in its price range.
The price for both C63 Sealander GMT models is €1,350 on the Bader bracelet. It is hard to find a better combination of quality, comfort, and functionality for this money. These models are an excellent budget solution to replace the Rolex Explorer II.
Seiko 5 Sports SSK023
It was expected that Seiko would offer several options, including the Alpinist GMT series, but it was discontinued in 2025, lasting less than two years. This made the choice easier for the list. Another affordable and popular model is the Seiko 5 Sports GMT, based on the brand's field watches. At the end of 2023, SSK023 stainless steel and fully black SSK025 versions appeared. We chose the SSK023 — more in demand and suitable for our review.
The SSK023 case is 39.4 mm in diameter, 13.6 mm thick, and 47.9 mm lug-to-lug, designed in the field watch style with GMT markings on a fixed steel bezel. The black dial features large Arabic numerals and an additional 24-hour scale. The hands are standard for the watch, with the addition of a large orange GMT hand.
Inside is the proprietary Seiko 4R34 caliber, operating at 21,600 vibrations per hour with a 41-hour power reserve. The five-row stainless steel bracelet provides comfort and reliability.
Priced at €460, the Seiko 5 Sports SSK023 is the most affordable model on the list. For this money, you get a reliable watch with dual time zones, capable of withstanding active use and looking stylish. It is the perfect option for everyday wear.
Nodus × Raven TrailTrekker Clay
If you want a classic Explorer II look with an original twist, consider the Nodus × Raven TrailTrekker Clay. I enjoyed getting acquainted with these watches in the office. Initially, I was skeptical, as they strongly resemble the gray-green Explorer II.
However, upon closer inspection, it is clear that the TrailTrekker is the result of a collaboration between Nodus and Raven, where each brand contributed its signature details. The case measures 39.5 mm by 46.6 mm with a thickness of 11.8 mm, made of stainless steel with a gunmetal DLC coating. The fixed bezel with Cerakote coating has a slight greenish tint. Engraved numbers with black lacquer filling and a black crown create a restrained style. The gray-green dial with black hour markers filled with sand-colored luminescent material provides good contrast. Three main stainless steel hands and a dark yellow GMT hand with a cut-off tip ensure excellent readability.
Inside is the Miyota 9075 — a popular movement among microbrands for GMT, operating at 28,800 vibrations per hour with a 42-hour power reserve. Completing the look is a stainless steel bracelet with DLC coating, tapering from 20 to 16 mm, with micro-adjustments and a NodeX button lock.
The TrailTrekker is not just a copy of the Explorer II, but an independent model with a unique dial, hands, bracelet, and date location at the "6 o'clock" position. The case color highlights the inspiration without being its shadow. Priced around $900, it is the perfect fifth and final contender on our list.
Conclusion: Five Best Alternatives to the Rolex Explorer II in 2026
So, here are our five favorites among the alternatives to the Rolex Explorer II in 2026. Of course, there are many more worthy options. So, a question for you: which Explorer II alternatives do you like? Leave your comments, and we'll see you next week with a new list — this time on the best February 2026 releases.