The Rolex Explorer II sports watch is a bold and modern update to the original Explorer of the 1950s, inspired by the timepiece that accompanied Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay in their first ascent to the top of Mt. Everest.
Making its debut in 1971, the modern Explorer II added the date and an additional arrow-tipped 24-hour orange hand with hour markers on a fixed bezel.
This Explorer II Rolex review discusses the finer points of the wristwatch and how it has changed over time.
Choosing a Rolex Explorer II reflects a desire to own a classic timepiece that projects confidence, style, and rugged endurance.
It looks handsome in the boardroom, at a cafe, or exploring the wilderness.
The modern design of the Explorer II increases visibility in extreme conditions.
The original had an easy to read, time-only display and simple design.
The Explorer II watch was larger than the original, and the dial optimized for viewing in dark conditions, allowing the wearer to distinguish day from night in places like the polar regions or inside a cave where the customary cues of night and day are difficult to observe.
The luminescent hands and markers at 2.5-minute intervals allow you to read your watch in the dark.
You can distinguish night from day using the 24-hour orange hand.
The original Explorer II model with the arrow-tipped 24-hour orange hand is known as the “Freccione” from the Italian freccia, meaning arrow.
These features were characteristic of reference 1655, making it a classic for the brand.
The Explorer II used the same movement as the GMT-Master, but the fixed bezel prevented showing a second time zone.
Reference 1655 was not favored with good sales during its 14-year run, despite its advanced features.
The next significant advance for the Explorer II was in 1985.
Reference 16550 added some significant, signature changes to the model:
- 40mm case
- Mercedes-style hands
- Replaced orange hand with a red, narrower, arrow-tipped 24-hour hand
- Sapphire crystal
- 3085 movement
The updated movement allowed for independent adjustment of the 24-hour hand for GMT timekeeping.
The 16550 also added the option for both a white dial and black dial (black was the only option on the 1655).
Later editions of the 16550 added black surrounds to the markers and hands for contrast and better visibility against the white dial.
The dial on the 16550 was simplified, replacing the busier 1655 dial.
One characteristic of the 16550-white dial was its tendency to change to a cream color over time due to a flaw in the paint.
This “defect” made the 16550 popular with collectors.
It was a transitional model that evolved to become the Rolex 16570.
The Rolex Explorer II 16570
Changes to the 16550 over time consolidated in reference 16570, introduced in 1989.
These included the white “Polar” dial and the black surrounds on the hands and markers.
Rolex updated the motion to calibre 3185 and 3186 in later editions.
It also supported dual time zone display.
The 16570 model remained in production for 22 years until it was replaced by the current reference 216570.
- Case diameter: 40mm (42mm with crown)
- Case material: Oystersteel
- Water resistance: 100m or 330 feet
- Movement: calibre 3186
- Movement features: date, hour, minute, and second hands, 24-hour hand, and second time zone
- Bezel type: fixed, stainless steel, 24-hour scale
- Bracelet type: Oyster, stainless steel
- Dial: white or black with luminous markers and hands
The Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer II 216570
The Explorer II turned 40 in 2011. Rolex introduced reference 216570 to celebrate.
Using the 1655 as inspiration, the 216570 model enlarged the Oyster steel case to 42mm and increased the dial size, hour markers, and hands.
The expanded size allows for larger lume sizes and improved legibility.
As a homage to 1655, Rolex restored the orange 24-hour hand along with the “Explorer II” text on the dial.
The modern 216570 supports dual time display and has a caliber 3187 self-winding mechanism that features a Parachrom hairspring and Paraflex shock absorption.
The movement has a Superlative Chronometer classification, accurate to -2/+2 seconds per day.
- Case diameter: 42mm
- Case material: Oystersteel
- Water resistance: 100 meters or 330 feet
- Movement: calibre 3187
- Movement features: date, hour, minute, and second hands, orange 24-hour hand and display, and second time zone
- Bezel type: fixed, stainless steel, 24-hour scale
- Bracelet type: Oyster, stainless steel
- Dial: white or black, Chromalight display with blue luminescence on markers and hands
Rolex Explorer II 16570 vs. 216570
Let’s look at some of the similarities and differences between the 16570 and 216570.
Case
The 216570 model utilizes the Maxi Case, replacing the 16570 40mm case. The Maxi Case is also 40mm but has an enhanced bezel, lugs, and crown guards. Later iterations of the 216750 come with a 42mm case and the 3187 movement.
Dial and Hands
Rolex introduced the 216570 on the Explorer II’s 40th anniversary. The 24-hour orange hand was initially introduced with the inaugural 1655 and revived for the 216570. The 24-hour hand on the 16570 is thinner and red. Also, the Explorer II text is black on the Polar 16570 and orange like the 24-hour hand on the 216570.
Bracelet
Both the 16570 and 216570 watches have Oystersteel bracelets. However, the 216570 bracelet is slightly wider to match the expanded lugs. Also, the 216570 was the first to come with the Easylink Comfort Extension, which extends the bracelet up to 5mm. This capability helps when the wearer’s wrist expands or contracts with temperature changes.
Movement
The 16570 originally came with the caliber 3185, and then the caliber 3186 later in its life cycle. The 3185 was the first watch mechanism allowing independent adjustments for the 24-hour hand, separate from the hour, minute, and second hands.
The 3186 updated internals included the Parachrom hairspring and Paraflex shock absorption, making it resistant to magnetism and providing more shock protection.
The 216570 is outfitted with the 3187 mechanism, a slightly enlarged version of 3186 to fit the 42mm case.
Is it a Bargain Deal?
Most reviews agree that this is excellent value for your money. The model has sold well historically for Rolex but has not gained the status or popularity of their other utility Rolex models. This outcome is due in part to the narrow target market and the distinctive aesthetic of the Explorer II watches. If you’re willing to purchase from the secondary market, there are some great deals to be found, but you may have to do some research. Other steel sports models in the product line can’t make that claim.
As an entry-level Rolex sports, the Explorer II is among the less costly models, in part due to the Oystersteel construction. Other higher-priced timepieces (Rolex and other brands) use precious metals like gold and platinum. You can email the manufacturer and learn more about the specs of the high-priced watch models.
However, the lack of precious metal doesn't detract from the Explorer II’s good looks. The white and the black dial of this watch are both distinctive against the Oystersteel case.
New vs. Used Rolex Explorer II
Choosing between a new Rolex Explorer II watch and a used one depends on several factors, not the least of which is personal preference. Acquiring a used or vintage Rolex requires you to spend hours researching, vetting sellers, and selecting from prospective Rolex watches you see. What you get from a used or vintage Rolex that a new one doesn’t have is that aura of history. A vintage watch has witnessed times and places you could never know, and something is inspiring about that.
On the other hand, fraud is rampant in the used Rolex market, so finding a seller you trust takes some time and investigation. Anyone proclaiming to have an “exclusive” model may not be altogether trustworthy since most Rolex models—the Explorer II included—are not really exclusive at all. Even vintage editions. Also, while aesthetics may be a significant driver in your purchasing decision, ensuring the watch is mechanically sound upfront can save on unexpected repair costs later.
While some collectors may not have a favorable opinion, buying a new Rolex has its advantages. You’re buying the latest technology and design, including the 3187 movement and the 42mm Oystersteel case. All incremental updates to the Explorer II since the 216570 are available when you purchase new.
Ultimately, whichever way you decide, purchasing a Rolex watch is an investment that will retain most of its value—if not increase in value, especially over time. There are advantages from a purely investment point of view to owning a used Rolex, but it can be a significant investment. New watches often have a lower entry point. If upfront price is a factor, then reference 16570 or reference 216570 may be an excellent place to start.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Your questions answered:
How Much is the Rolex Explorer II?
The Explorer II list price is $8,100, but there are usually cheaper offers available on Amazon. A new Explorer II will have all the latest features (see 216570 above) and includes a manufacturer’s warranty. You will have the comfort and knowledge of knowing you are dealing with an authorized Rolex dealer and retailer, along with the accompanying warranty and post-purchase support.
Prices on the secondary market depend on several factors. Older references typically go for $6,500 to $7,500. Well-preserved vintage references or specimens with rare dials can fetch much higher prices.
Try not to lead with your emotions when looking for a luxury, vintage watch. Make sure you are buying from a reputable seller and double-check the refund policy to make sure you are comfortable with the terms.
Is the Rolex Explorer 2 a GMT?
Yes. Beginning with reference 16550 in 1985 running the 3085 mechanism, the Rolex Explorer II became a fully functional GMT watch by allowing independent adjustment of the 24-hour hand. Reference 216570 continues to offer a second time zone function.
How Thick is a Rolex Explorer II?
The Explorer II reference 16550 up through 216570 is 12.5mm thick. The 1655 watch was 13.5 mm thick.
Is the Rolex Explorer 2 Waterproof?
Yes, it features the classic Oyster case, waterproof to 330 feet (100 meters). The watch is also equipped with Rolex’s trademark twin-lock double-waterproof crown, making it a decent diving watch in shallow depths.
Wrap Up
The Rolex Explorer II has a storied place in Rolex brand history. Its numerous changes over the years have made this adventuresome watch a classic among horology enthusiasts. Reference 16550 and those following placed the chronometer in the company of Rolex’s other GMT-capable watches. The shock resistance and antimagnetic hairspring of the caliber 3187 make the Explorer II watch a dependable choice in sports watches.
The Explorer II’s classic styling, highly readable dial, date, and second time zone support make it an excellent watch for travel, business, or casual wear. All the finer points, such as the Oystersteel bracelet with the trademark Oysterlock folding clasp and Easylink Comfort Extension, make wearing the Explorer II comfortable under any conditions. The stainless-steel bracelet can be adjusted by removing links, too.
You may not be in the market for a Freccione, but there are plenty of older, even vintage, Explorer II’s on the secondary market. Whether you decide to buy a new Explorer II watch from an authorized Rolex dealer or pursue a deal on the secondary market, the Explorer II is a worthwhile watch investment.
The new models retain most of their original value and have little depreciation, while vintage models—depending on condition and unique attributes like dial color—can fetch many times their original price. Whether you choose to buy new or used an Explorer II depends on your budget and personal tastes. Every Rolex tells a story, and a used or vintage one has more of a story to tell.
The Rolex Explorer II is a great travel, business, and casual wear watch. The Explorer II’s classic styling, useful complications, and bold looks are sure to complement your lifestyle. Its value as an investment, like all Rolex watches, depends on several factors but is ordinarily worthwhile for the horology enthusiast.