The Rolex Explorer II 16570 is a robust tool watch designed for adventurers who demand precision and durability. This 40mm stainless steel model features a fixed 24‑hour bezel and an additional red GMT hand, enabling the wearer to distinguish day from night or track a second time zone. Its crisp white “Polar” dial is fitted with luminous hour markers and Mercedes‑style hands, ensuring legibility in low‑light conditions. Powered by the automatic Calibre 3185, the watch offers reliable timekeeping with a 50‑hour power reserve and COSC chronometer certification. A sapphire crystal, screw‑down crown, and Oyster bracelet complete the package, delivering both rugged functionality and understated elegance.
HKD$72,000
available
Introduced in 1989, the Explorer II 16570 carried forward the legacy of Rolex’s original cave‑exploration tool watch, the 1655. Produced until 2011, the 16570 became a favorite among collectors for its versatile 40mm case size and choice of black or white dials. The 1996 example with serial number T597156 represents an early production run, distinguished by its tritium lume and the Calibre 3185 movement, which marked a technical upgrade over its predecessor. Over its two‑decade lifespan, the 16570 remained largely unchanged, a testament to its timeless design and enduring utility. Today, it is celebrated as a transitional Explorer II — bridging vintage charm with modern reliability — and continues to be sought after by enthusiasts who value Rolex’s heritage of exploration.
