My dad gave me a Rolex Explorer II 16570 about twenty years ago as a wedding gift. He bought it used, and at the time, it was simply a beautiful watch – a symbol of his love and well wishes for my new life. I wore it occasionally, appreciating its rugged good looks, but honestly, I didn't understand watches. Recently, however, I’ve been bitten by the horological bug. Pulling the Explorer II from its safe, I was struck by its timeless design and the intriguing history hinted at by its subtle details, prompting me to delve into the world of Rolex, specifically the 16570 reference. This journey has led me down a rabbit hole of serial numbers, production years, market values, and the overall legacy of this iconic timepiece. This article will explore the Rolex Explorer II 16570, focusing on serial numbers and their significance, alongside a comprehensive review, price analysis, and investment potential.
Rolex Explorer II 16570 Review:
The Rolex Explorer II 16570, produced from 1989 to 2011, represents a significant chapter in the history of the Explorer II line. Unlike its predecessor, the reference 1655, the 16570 featured a more refined aesthetic while retaining the crucial functionality that defined the model: a 24-hour hand for around-the-clock readability and enhanced legibility in low-light conditions. This second hand, independent from the minute and hour hands, is a key characteristic of the Explorer II and a feature highly valued by adventurers and explorers for whom the watch was originally designed. The 16570’s case, typically 40mm in diameter, is robust and well-proportioned, offering a comfortable fit on most wrists. The sapphire crystal is highly scratch-resistant, protecting the easily readable dial. The dial itself, often featuring luminous indices and hands (either tritium or luminova depending on the production year), contributes to the watch's remarkable legibility. The fixed bezel, with its graduated 24-hour markings, complements the 24-hour hand, enhancing its practicality. The watch is powered by the reliable and robust Calibre 3185, a self-winding mechanical movement known for its accuracy and longevity.
The 16570 saw several subtle variations throughout its production run. These include dial variations (such as the presence or absence of "SWISS" on the dial), hand types (luminova vs. tritium), and the evolution of the caseback engravings. These subtle differences contribute to the complexity and fascination surrounding the collecting of this model. The serial number, etched on the rehaut (the ring between the crystal and the dial), plays a crucial role in dating the watch and verifying its authenticity.
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