The Rolex Explorer II was introduced in 1971 as a specialized tool watch designed specifically for speleologists (cave explorers), polar adventurers, and anyone working in total darkness. While the original 1953 Explorer was built for mountain climbing, the Explorer II was engineered with a fixed 24-hour bezel and a prominent 24-hour arrow hand to help users distinguish between AM and PM when cut off from natural sunlight.

With the introduction of the second generation, Rolex introduced white dials on the reference 16550 in 1985. In 1989, Rolex upgraded the model with the new caliber 3185/3186 in the reference 16570 — and that is exactly what we have to offer here.

The 40 mm steel case and 24-hour bezel are in lovely condition, featuring thick shoulders and strong crown guards.

The Polar white dial is in superb condition, with black printed text, black-outlined hour markers, and warm yellow lume on both the plots and hands — always a detail we love to see on these.

This Explorer is fitted with an Oyster bracelet reference 78360, with end links marked 501B and a clasp stamped U5. The watch has been fully serviced by our watchmaker and is ready for many years of reliable wear.

We think the white-dial Explorer II is the ultimate summer watch!

Specifications:

Rolex Explorer II Reference 16570
40mm steel case, 24 hours bezel
Serial U346xxxx dating to 1997
Polar White dial white yellow patina
Bracelet reference 78360 with 501B end links
Fully serviced by our watchmaker
One-year mechanical warranty
Free worldwide Fedex Priority shipping

Rolex Explorer II 16570 Polar with Creamy Patina

Rolex Explorer II 16570 Polar with Creamy Patina

Before/after