Rolex Explorer II Polar "Swiss Only" 16570 automatic 40 mm Full Set 2000

The origin

The history of the Explorer II begins with part number 1655, unveiled in 1971. It differs from the Explorer I by offering additional features designed for cavers. Indeed, the 1655 adds a 24-hour hand and bezel, intended for use by cavers while exploring caves, to distinguish between day and night. As a Rolex advertisement from the time indicates.

Like other Rolex professional watches, such as the "Milgauss" or the "Turn-O-Graph" for example, the "Explorer II" received a mixed reception when it was first launched. For many, the fact that this watch has a 24 hour hand and a fixed 24 hour bezel, it could not technically offer a GMT function, unlike its counterpart, the "GMT-Master" 1675. For these reasons, Rolex stopped the production of the 1655 in 1984. It will be replaced by the reference 16550 in 1985, which proposes a new caliber offering a true GMT indication. The "Explorer II" becomes a dual time zone watch, while the "GMT-Master" becomes a triple time zone watch. The watch is also modernized with the addition of a sapphire crystal. Finally, the dial, available in black or white, has become more conventional, in line with other Rolex sports watches: Mercedes hands, a smaller 24-hour hand and triangular, round and rectangular tritium-filled hour markers.

Finally, the next model is known as the 16570, launched in 1989. The evolutions were slight, with most of the 16550's features retained. The white "Polar" dial is equipped with black underlined hands and indexes instead of silver. The movement has also evolved, and this reference also saw the addition of the Rolex engraved flange and the switch from tritium to LumiNova and then to SLN, during its 22 years of production.

Getting to know each other

At Lepage, we particularly like this 16570 reference, which falls somewhere between vintage and modern models, taking some elements from both generations to produce a fantastic "cocktail". And it is certainly the easiest model to enter the neo-vintage universe at Rolex! Indeed, the 16570 has many features of modern Rolex watches, while retaining an undeniable retro style. It is thus reliable, with proportions much closer to the 70s than the 2000s. The model is powered by Rolex's caliber 3185, an automatic caliber that offers a 50-hour power reserve.

Finally, the model we offer in this 10:10 episode is a "Swiss Only" version. It is a transitional model at Rolex, which introduces a non-radioactive material: the LumiNova. The watch is also dressed in an Oyster bracelet equipped with a "Flip-lock" clasp.

The Package

This 2000 example is one of those "neo-vintage" collectibles prized for its understated and efficient design. This watch is in excellent condition. We offer it with its original case and warranty. This Rolex Explorer II watch has been authenticated and serviced by our Rolex authorized watchmaker, and benefits from the Lepage Vintage one year warranty. In addition, you can enjoy a free engraving on the case back.