A rare 2010 serial Explorer II, sold in 2011; this Polar Dial is one of the last 40mm Explorer II's ever produced and sold. This model features the upgraded 3186 movement with Parachrom hairspring and 50 hour power reserve. Late 16570’s such as this are particularly desirable thanks to their no-holes case, engraved rehaut and super-luminova dial, which have been adopted across the latest generation of Rolex. Some small wear marks can be seen across the case and bracelet, though this only goes to emphasise the sublime sharpness and unpolished condition of the watch as a whole. Unserviced, original watches like this example appeal particularly to the cognoscenti who understand that service papers can often be an indication of overworked polishing and replacement parts. In any case, this Explorer II keeps wonderful time and is covered by our 12 month warranty.
Designed for spelunkers and embraced by explorer-travellers alike, the 16570 is a surprising dose of elegance and fun in equal measure. There’s little in the pre-ceramic Rolex catalogue that gives the same feel on the wrist and the 40mm case offers a delicacy that simply isn’t matched by its’ much larger modern equivalent. The 16570 is still tremendously overlooked in the vintage Rolex scene, it's this and the Explorer II's relative rarity that gets us particularly excited.
Moving inwards from the sharp steel case, we find a crisp Polar white dial set with jet black indices and hands, like mountain rock protruding from freshly laid snow. What might be an otherwise stark package is utterly transformed by the simple zip of colour from the red GMT hand which functionally differentiates this as keeping a second time zone indicated on the 24 hour bezel.
It's becoming increasingly difficult to find late 16570's, particularly in this condition. This example is ideal for the discerning collector who appreciates case definition, sharpness and originality above all else.
Box: Inner & Outer Rolex Box (Green Oyster and Cream Cardboard)
Service History: No supporting documents, keeping time well.
Papers: All booklets and cards. Two swing tags.
Notes: Full bracelet. Unpolished.
