Rolex
1996 Rolex Explorer II (Ref. 16570) "Polar Dial"
The Rolex Explorer II Ref. 16570 was introduced in 1989 and was the predecessor to the Rolex Explorer II ref. 16550. The Rolex Ref. 16550 and Ref. 16570 look very similar but do have some big differences. The Explorer II reference 16570 featured the new caliber 3185 and then the 3186 later on which offered the jumping hour hand. It also only had one obvious visual change from its predecessor, the use of black hour marker rings and hands on the white dial version as opposed to the previous white-dial model which had white gold hour markers and hands like the Submariner and GMT-Master. It is said that beneath the black paint of the white dial Ref. 16570, the hour markers and hands are still white gold. The white dial and fixed stainless steel bezel are not only handsome in looks but also extremely functional. The cal. 3185 movement with its jumping hour hand and accompanying GMT hand make this an ideal piece for the frequent traveler as it's easy to set and track dual time zones. The white dial makes a statement without being overly flashy and it looks just as good on its ref. 78360 Oyster bracelet as it does on a leather strap or nylon Nato.
| Stock # | RLXEXP296-3 | |
| Brand | Rolex | |
| Style | Explorer II | |
| Model | 16570 | |
| Serial | T1XXXXX | |
| Size | Men's | |
| Material | SS | |
| Dial | White "Polar" | |
| Millimeters | 40mm | |
| Bracelet | Rolex 78360 Oyster Bracelet W/ 501B End Pieces |
CASE & BRACELET
The strong case has been lightly polished in the past and retains very full lugs that are even in presence. The fixed stainless steel 24hr bezel is in excellent condition and retains all of its original black enamel. The original Rolex 78360 Oyster bracelet with 501B end pieces retains 12 links and shows very light stretch from use.
DIAL & HANDS
The white "Polar" dial is in exceptional condition showing no signs of aging or imperfections. The tritium lume plots have taken on a slight ivory tone and exhibit no degradation under U.V. light inspection. The original tritium hands match the dial nicely, the 24hr hand has aged slightly more than the dial. Under U.V. light inspection the hands show no degradation or lume loss.
ACCESSORIES
None. The watch is running within COSC spec, previous service history is unknown.