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. Released in 2010 and ushering in a new larger era for the Rolex Explorer II collection, the ref. 216570 beefed up the Explorer II's dimensions from 40mm to 42mm and re-introduced the iconic fan-favourite orange arrow-shaped GMT-hour hand. Retaining the collection's signature steel bezel with its distinctive radial brushed finish, the Explorer II is the perfect blend of Rolex's legendary tool watch-specific heritage and their modern focus on the luxurious aspects of watchmaking.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
M 9
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Box and Papers
Est. value range
$8,000 – $12,000
The Details
Brand
Rolex
Dimensions
42mm
Model
Explorer II
Movement
Automatic cal. 3187
Reference
216570
Bracelet
Stainless steel Oyster bracelet
Year
2011
Condition
Near-Mint
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch, box, papers and hang tags
Dial Color
Black
THE DIAL
Recalling the original Explorer II's display, this ref. 216570's black dial plays background to its iconic orange hour hand that appears to float within the watch thanks to its black bottom half, much like its hour and minute hands.
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.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Unmistakable as an Explorer II, this example's dark black dial, 24-hour graduated fixed bezel, and robust all-brushed construction leaves no uncertainty as to the rugged tool watch nature of this iconic timepiece.
Condition
Watch is in near-mint condition with only light signs of use. The bracelet was previously sized, and the removed link is included with the watch.
Our Perspective
Perhaps one of the unsung heroes within the world of Rolex, the Explorer II is a timepiece that has earned its right to enjoy the same level of status and admiration as any other Rolex model thanks to its unique cave exploring use-case and distinctive aesthetic.
Eric Ku
Co-founder
