1997 Rolex Explorer II (Ref. 16570) "Polar" Dial

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 #		RLXEXP216570-16
Brand		Rolex
Style		Explorer II
Model		16570
Serial		U6XXXXX
Size		Men's
Material		Stainless Steel
Dial		White "Polar"
Millimeters		40
Bracelet		Rolex 78790 Oyster Bracelet W/ 501B End Pieces

CASE & BRACELET

The strong case features very thick and symmetrical lugs that retain the factory chamfers, showing gentle wear and minimal signs of being polished in the past. The fixed 24-hour stainless steel bezel is very crisp with minimal wear and retains all of its factory black enamel with light signs of use. The original Rolex 78790 Oyster bracelet with 501B end pieces retains 12 links that show minimal stretch and will fit up to a 7.5-inch wrist.

DIAL & HANDS

The original white dial with black marker surrounds is virtually perfect, showing no notable age or damage. The tritium lume plots have achieved a handsome eggshell patina and exhibit no degradation when inspected under UV light. The original tritium hands match the dial with no degradation present under UV light inspection.