Introduction
Debuting in 1971, the Rolex Explorer II was released to satiate the demand for a relatively niche timepiece for a particular type of explorer, Spelunkers, or cave explorers as we may call them. Made only of steel, the Explorer II's construction ensures that none of its parts might crack or break off against a rock in cramped conditions, such as a bezel insert. With this use in mind, the Explorer II originally featured its iconic arrow-shaped 24-hour hand to differentiate between AP and PM for spelunkers that might lose track of the day and night cycle while they were in caves for days at a time. The modern Explorer II models have had this function exchanged for a fully operational GMT-hand. Featuring its signature fixed stainless-steel bezel, arrow-shaped 2nd hour hand, and robust design, the Explorer II makes for an incredible jack-of-all-trades timepiece as it comprises of just about everything your modern exploring needs might demand. Whether you're 500m under a mountain, 30m underwater, or 10,000m in the air on a trans-Atlantic flight, the Explorer II has you covered.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
M 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Box and Papers
Est. value range
$8,000 – $12,000
The Details
Brand
Rolex
Dimensions
40mm
Model
Explorer II
Movement
Automatic cal. 3185
Reference
16570
Bracelet
Stainless steel Oyster bracelet
Year
2003
Condition
Excellent
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch, box and papers
Dial Color
Black
THE DIAL
Offered in exemplary condition, this example's black dial plays background to an array of wonderfully preserved hour markers and hands that shine with a bright white pearlescence.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Unmistakable as an Explorer II, this example's dark black dial, 24-hour graduated fixed bezel, and robust all-brushed construction leave no uncertainty as to the rugged tool watch nature of this iconic timepiece.
TIMING MACHINE READOUT
This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.
Condition
Watch is in excellent overall condition. There is fine surface wear on the case and a few light scratches on the bezel. The dial is in near-mint condition and has no visible imperfections. Caseback still has full green sticker affixed. The bracelet has 11 links total, 1 of which is removable.
Our Perspective
Perhaps one of the unsung heroes within the world of vintage Rolex, the Explorer II is a timepiece that has earned its right to enjoy the same level of status and admiration as any other vintage Rolex thanks to its unique cave exploring use case and distinctive aesthetic.
Eric Ku
Co-founder
