2011 marked a significant year in the history of the Rolex Explorer II. This wasn't a year of new introductions, but rather a year of farewell. Rolex discontinued the reference 16570, a 40mm model that had enjoyed a long and successful run, paving the way for the 40th Anniversary Explorer II, the reference 216570. This review will focus on the 16570, the last of its breed, exploring its features, legacy, and its position within the broader context of the Explorer II lineage, including its successors and its current value. We'll also delve into specific variants like the white dial and polar dial versions, and discuss the Explorer II as a potential investment.
The Rolex Explorer II reference 16570, produced from 1989 to 2011, represented the culmination of a design philosophy honed over decades. It wasn't a radical departure from its predecessors, but rather a refinement, a subtle evolution that cemented its place as a highly desirable and capable tool watch. Its 40mm Oyster case, a size now considered relatively compact by modern standards, felt substantial and perfectly balanced on the wrist. The iconic fixed bezel with its 24-hour graduated markings, originally designed for spelunking expeditions where distinguishing day from night in low-light conditions was crucial, remained a defining feature. This functionality, combined with its exceptional robustness and reliability, made it a favorite among adventurers and professionals alike.
The 16570's dial offered excellent legibility, a hallmark of Rolex design. The luminous hour markers and hands, typically in either white or black (the latter often referred to as a "black dial" or "polar dial" despite not being truly white), provided exceptional visibility in low light conditions. The orange hand, indicating the 24-hour hand, provided a striking contrast, instantly grabbing the eye. This feature, while functional, also added a touch of sporty flair to the overall aesthetic. The date window, at 3 o'clock, was neatly integrated into the design, without detracting from the overall clean lines of the dial.
Rolex Explorer II 42mm Review (Indirect Comparison): While the 16570 is a 40mm watch, it's crucial to compare it to its successor, the 42mm 216570 and later the 226570. The larger size of the subsequent models represents a significant shift. The 42mm size, while offering increased wrist presence and potentially improved legibility for some, felt noticeably larger than the 16570 for many who preferred the more compact dimensions of the older model. This difference in size significantly impacts the wearing experience, with the 16570 often being praised for its comfortable fit on a wider range of wrists.
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