IWC Ingenieur Dual Time IW3244 vs Rolex Explorer 2 ref 216570

Hi guys,

To celebrate a milestone, I've decided to obtain a new horological acquisition for my collection. I've decided that the watch I want will need to have a UTC/GMT complication, clean lines, able to convey information at a glance and able to stand the wear and tear of daily living and travel.

After a process of elimination, I've narrowed the two possible candidates to:

1. IWC Ingenieur Dual Time IW3244
2. Rolex Explorer 2 Ref 216570

I've also considered the Rolex GMT Master, but it didn't make the cut as it didn't 'sing' to me.

I think the price point is similar here in Australia (probably a couple of $100s of dollars). I'm torn between the two watches and cannot decided. Any help will be greatly appreciated.

As you decided to post this in an IWC forum, I guess you already know which answer people will give? :-)

In all seriousness, they are both very good pieces.

From an investment perspective, I think the Rolex will hold its value better in the long run.

For the Ingenieur, if you look around hard enough, you will probably find a good bargin for it. If you do, I will definitely get the Ingenieur. Below are some of my reasons:

1) You will find people wearing Rolex Explorer 2 everywhere you go. IWC Ingenieur dual-time is a lot more rare.

2) While it is not difficult to remove the bracelet of the Rolex and put 3rd party straps on it (like Rubber B strap or Nato strap), the IWC offers a lot of straps for you to use. You may even choose a rubber strap with leather in-lay, or simply a leather strap with it. All you need are two tooth-picks to remove the bracelet.

3) The IWC bracelet feels much more substantial, and in my opinion, a lot better looking.

Hi Ed,

You pose an interesting question. Let me begin by saying I'm Rolex fan (Explorer II, Milgauss black dial and the D Blue are my all time favs) as well as an IWC fan (too many to list). Wherever you go in the world you will find someone wearing a Rolex, for they are truly iconic and have been regarded as something of a "status symbol" for many years (certain models will almost certainly gain value over the longer term). IWC tend to attract a different kind of buyer / collector, with a heritage in pilots watches they are known for being functional, masculine and beautifully crafted with absolute precision (an iron fist in a silk glove), the typical collector is discerning to the extreme (/ fanatical) and almost always worthy of a dinner invite.

The Rolex says a lot from a distance whereas the Ingenieur Dual time is a talking point over dinner, from the legendary Gerald Genta design cues to the bracelet (which is a work of art) to the intriguing movement (sellita?).

A great position to be in, happy hunting whichever model you choose!

All best,
Doug