Rolex

1991 Rolex Explorer II (Ref. 16570) "Polar" Dial W/ Box & Rolex Service Center Paperwork

It seems as though every reference and iteration of the Rolex Explorer II has details that set them drastically apart from one another, making it the Rolex reference that has seen the most drastic evolution through its tenure. From the first and original "orange hand" matte dial ref. 1655, to the modern 42mm produced today, and everything in between.

The Rolex Explorer II ref. 16570  was introduced in 1989, directly succeeding the transitional ref. 16550 with some subtle cosmetic and internal upgrades. The Rolex Explorer II ref. 16570 employs the updated and robust cal. 3185 jumping hour movement, the black paint on the hands and marker surrounds is now standard on the white or “polar” dial variants, and the bezel font has been slightly modified from the previous reference. 

SPECS

Stock # RLXEXP216570-18
Brand Rolex
Style Explorer II
Model 16570
Serial N4XXXXX
Size Men's
Material Stainless Steel
Dial White "Polar"
Millimeters 40
Bracelet Rolex 78360 Oyster Bracelet W/ 501B End Pieces

 

CASE & BRACELET

The excellent case retains thick and symmetrical lugs that show light evidence of being polished in the past, with only light signs of use present. The fixed 24-hour stainless steel bezel is in wonderful condition with only minor wear and nominal loss to the factory black enamel present. The Rolex 78360 Oyster bracelet with 501B end pieces retains 11 links that show minimal stretch and will fit up to a 7-inch wrist. The watch comes with two additional links.

DIAL & HANDS

The original white dial with black marker surrounds is virtually perfect, showing no age or damage. The tritium lume plots have achieved a lovely creamy patina and exhibit no degradation when inspected under UV light. The original tritium hands match the dial perfectly. Under UV light inspection, all of the hands, except for the seconds hand, exhibit light cracking, though no lume loss is present, and they all remain stable.

ACCESSORIES

The watch comes with its original inner and outer boxes, Rolex service center receipts, booklets, and chronometer seal hangtag, and a blank green hangtag. The watch is keeping time perfectly, backed by a 1-year warranty on accurate timekeeping.

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