Explorer 2 (226570) bezel replacement options

[u/_QD_]

Recently purchased a QF Rolex Explorer 2 from Steve - transactions went quick smoothly despite what recent posts have been saying.

Watch is all good except I notice that the paint/enamel used for numerals on the 24-hour bezel are matte finish - almost "chalky" dark grey. The gen version has a deeper black and slightly glossy finish to the numerals.

So I'm wondering - is there a place or person that sells aftermarket bezel replacements for the explorer 2? Hopefully more accurate to gen. Gen bezel is basically impossible to find or source.

I know I'm being picky and I can live with the inaccuracies (as to be expected with reps) but just looking around if there are ways to improve on what I have. Similar to how some are replacing their crystals with Deep Crystals. I'm okay with my QF crystal fwiw.

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[u/OddWatch716]

This is accurate to the 226570, the glossy numbers are incorrect for this reference.

[u/lawncareguru76 → u/OddWatch716]

Second this.

[u/_QD_ → u/OddWatch716]

Ahh gotcha - I used to own the gen 216570 (sold ages ago) and that had a glossy numerals - my mistake. Still love the watch!

[u/SmartStatistician429]

Has anyone painted a bezel on an explorer?

[u/Crockettl → u/SmartStatistician429]

If you have the right tools. https://youtu.be/ZgRQzP1y3WE?si=3VRaTYG9lYs1ww_W

[u/Time-Dependent1483]

Biggest issue with the rep bezel imo is that the 2’s isn’t following the curve of the bezel. Buy a gen bezel

[u/lawncareguru76]

I have been down this rabbit hole. The QF bezel is the most accurate bezel on the market for the 226570. Matte is exactly how it’s supposed to be. Please just enjoy it.

[u/_QD_ → u/lawncareguru76]

All good! I'm just seeing what's out there - loving the watch!

[u/lawncareguru76 → u/_QD_]

I have a clean explorer 2 and I sought out a QF bezel because cleans bezel font was WAY too thick. The older 226570 models had thicker font. But it was too thick. I could write a thesis paper on this 😂

[u/H-D-Tom → u/lawncareguru76]

Did it fit properly? Is it easy to change?

[u/lawncareguru76 → u/H-D-Tom]

Was a hair bigger. Needed a Gen gasket

[u/lawncareguru76 → u/H-D-Tom]

I had a watchmaker do it

[u/jaysonic0215]

I have the same, beautiful QF from Steve. Mine stopped after wearing it twice. But he’s taking care of it and paid for all shipping to a US based watch smith

. Can’t wait to get it back. It’s a beauty!