RolexExplorer II

The ref. 16570 represents the last generation of classically proportioned 40mm Explorer II’s. A handsome and reliable travel companion, the red GMT hand and brushed 24-hour scale bezel allow the wearer to track two time zones simultaneously. Apart from becoming increasingly collectable, the white or “polar” dial variant is highly legible thanks to the blackened white gold surrounds on the hands and indices. This early example, which dates to 1991, has luminous tritium material, which collectors favour due to its tendency to patinate over time. This is evident on the hands and markers, which have transitioned to a characterful creamy tone.

Housed underneath the case back is the tried and tested calibre 3185. This robust self-winding movement, shared with the GMT-Master II, features a 48-hour power reserve and Chronometer certification. The watch is secured to the wrist by a satin-finished Oyster bracelet. While it perfectly complements the case, the drilled lug holes, a feature no longer seen on modern Rolexes, allow the wearer to easily swap out to a leather strap or NATO for a completely different aesthetic.

The watch shows some signs of wear commensurate with age, and its condition is within the bounds of the seller’s A grading. It’s being sold by an established watch dealer, and they’re providing a 12-month guarantee and watch register certificate. A small aftermarket travel box is also supplied.

All watches offered for sale are searched and cleared against The Watch Register database and a certificate is available to the winning bidder upon request.

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