Rolex Explorer II 40MM 'Swiss Made' 16570 - 2003 | Box & Papers

The Rolex Explorer II 16570, produced from 1989 to 2001, is a well-regarded model in Rolex's lineup, especially known for its striking "Polar" white dial. This reference is an important part of the Explorer family, which has a legacy rooted in exploration. The 16570 is often favoured by enthusiasts for its clean design and robust functionality, with the white dial version in particular standing out for its legibility and versatile look.

Rolex's Explorer series began in the 1950s, directly inspired by the brand’s role in supporting some of the world’s most significant exploration missions. The original Explorer was introduced shortly after Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay reached the summit of Mount Everest in 1953, with the watch designed to withstand extreme conditions and offer reliable timekeeping. Over the years, the Explorer series evolved, and by 1971, the Explorer II was introduced with a key innovation: a fixed 24-hour bezel and an additional 24-hour hand. This made it especially useful for cave explorers, geologists, or anyone needing to track time in environments where distinguishing between day and night could be difficult.

The 16570, introduced in 1989, marked a new era for the Explorer II, powered by Rolex’s Calibre 3185 movement, which was a solid upgrade in terms of accuracy and reliability. The 16570 was available in two dial versions: the traditional black dial and the "Polar" white dial.

The latter quickly gained a reputation for its clean aesthetic and high contrast, making it especially easy to read in various lighting conditions. The Polar dial features bold black hour markers, a red 24-hour hand, and clear, luminous markers and hands, which ensure high visibility even in low light. As Hodinkee noted, the Polar dial “offers a visual lightness that makes it approachable, yet still retains the rugged, practical capabilities that the Explorer name demands.”

The 16570 features a 40mm case, a size that is versatile and suits most wrist sizes comfortably. Made from 904L stainless steel, the case is highly resistant to corrosion, an important feature for a watch designed to withstand the elements. The watch is powered by the Rolex Calibre 3185, an automatic movement with a 48-hour power reserve, offering a high degree of accuracy with a range of -2/+2 seconds per day. The Calibre 3185 also features Rolex’s signature Parachrom hairspring, which enhances its resistance to shocks and magnetic fields, making it a reliable choice for those engaging in active or outdoor pursuits.

The Explorer II 16570's standout feature is its fixed 24-hour bezel, which, along with the 24-hour hand, allows wearers to track a second time zone. This makes it particularly useful for people who need to keep an eye on time in different parts of the world. Fratello Watches notes, “The Explorer II 16570, especially with the Polar dial, represents a rugged tool watch that doesn’t scream for attention but still offers everything you need in a proper sports watch.”

While the 16570 has been succeeded by more modern references in the Explorer II lineup, it continues to hold appeal due to its understated design and practicality. The Polar dial, with its high contrast and legibility, remains a symbol of the watch's purpose as a tool for adventurers. As Worn & Wound explains, “The Polar dial version of the Explorer II was, and still is, a practical and versatile watch that manages to strike a balance between adventure-ready functionality and classic, no-nonsense aesthetics.”

The Rolex Explorer II 16570, with its Polar dial and history tied to exploration, continues to be a popular choice for those seeking a watch that combines practicality with style. It remains a great example of how Rolex has balanced form and function over the years, producing a timepiece that’s both capable and enduring.

For more information on the Rolex Explorer II 16570, check out these in-depth reviews from Time+Tide (link) and Bob’s Watches (link).

The case and bracelet are in very good condition, showing only minimal signs of wear. Both have been left unpolished.

The dial and hands are in flawless condition.