A Legacy of Exploration: Tracing the Roots of the Explorer II

To truly appreciate the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer II 216570, it's crucial to understand its historical context. The Explorer line was born from Rolex's close relationship with exploration and adventure. The original Rolex Explorer, launched in 1953, was a direct descendant of the watches used during the successful ascent of Mount Everest. Building upon this foundation, the Explorer II was introduced in 1971 (reference 1655), catering to explorers who ventured into environments where distinguishing day from night was challenging, such as caves or polar regions.

The Explorer II 1655 featured a fixed 24-hour bezel and an additional 24-hour hand, linked to the main hour hand, providing a crucial AM/PM indication. This functionality was vital for those operating in environments with extended periods of darkness or daylight. Subsequent Explorer II models, like the 16550 and 16570, refined the design and movement but largely maintained the core functionality and adventurous spirit. However, it was the Rolex Explorer II 216570 that marked a significant leap forward, both aesthetically and technically.

The Rolex Explorer II 216570: A Modern Reinterpretation

The Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer II 216570 arrived with a clear mission: to celebrate the Explorer II's legacy while injecting contemporary appeal. Here’s a breakdown of its key features and design elements:

Bold Dimensions and Robust Case

One of the most immediately noticeable changes was the increased case size. The 216570 expanded to 42mm, a significant jump from the 40mm of its predecessor, the 16570. This larger diameter provided a more substantial wrist presence, aligning with contemporary watch trends and enhancing legibility. Crafted from Rolex's signature 904L stainless steel (referred to as Oystersteel since 2018), the Oyster case of the Explorer II 216570 is exceptionally robust and corrosion-resistant. It’s engineered to withstand extreme conditions, perfectly embodying the Explorer spirit. The watch maintains a water resistance of 100 meters (330 feet), suitable for swimming and snorkeling, and more than adequate for everyday adventures.

The Iconic 24-Hour Bezel and 'Maxi' Dial

The fixed 24-hour bezel, a hallmark of the Explorer II, remained a central feature of the Rolex 216570. Crafted from stainless steel and engraved with clear, bold numerals, the bezel allows for easy reading of the 24-hour indication provided by the dedicated hand. The dial of the Explorer II 216570 also underwent a significant upgrade. Rolex introduced the 'Maxi' dial, featuring larger hour markers and hands filled with Chromalight luminescent material. This enhanced luminosity provides exceptional legibility in low-light conditions, crucial for explorers in dimly lit environments. The Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer II 216570 was available with two dial options: a crisp white dial, often referred to as the "Polar" dial, and a classic black dial. The white dial version became particularly iconic, offering a striking contrast with the black hands and hour markers, further boosting legibility.

The Distinctive Orange 24-Hour Hand: A Nod to History

Perhaps the most celebrated design element of the Rolex Explorer II 216570 is its vibrant orange 24-hour hand. This bold color choice was a direct homage to the original Explorer II 1655, which also featured an orange 24-hour hand. This retro-inspired touch resonated strongly with watch enthusiasts, adding a unique character and visual appeal to the 216570, distinguishing it from its predecessors and other Rolex models.

The Caliber 3187: Precision and Performance

Underneath the dial, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer II 216570 is powered by the Rolex caliber 3187, a significant upgrade from the caliber 3186 found in the previous 16570 model. This in-house manufactured, self-winding mechanical movement is renowned for its precision, reliability, and robustness. Key features of the Caliber 3187 include:

• Chronometer Certification: Like all Rolex Perpetual movements, the Caliber 3187 is a certified Swiss chronometer, tested by the COSC (Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres) for its high precision.
• Parachrom Hairspring: The movement incorporates Rolex's patented Parachrom hairspring, made from a paramagnetic alloy. This hairspring is highly resistant to magnetic fields and temperature variations, enhancing the movement's accuracy and stability. It is also significantly more shock-resistant than traditional hairsprings.
• Paraflex Shock Absorbers: The Caliber 3187 features Rolex's high-performance Paraflex shock absorbers, providing superior protection against shocks and impacts, further contributing to the watch's overall robustness and reliability in challenging environments.
• GMT Functionality: The Caliber 3187 provides the essential GMT function, allowing the wearer to track a second time zone using the 24-hour hand and the 24-hour bezel. This is particularly useful for travelers and, in keeping with the Explorer spirit, for those coordinating expeditions across different time zones.
• Approximately 48-Hour Power Reserve: The movement offers a power reserve of approximately 48 hours, meaning the watch will continue to run for about two days when fully wound, even if not worn.

The Caliber 3187 is a testament to Rolex's commitment to horological excellence, ensuring the Rolex Explorer II 216570 delivers exceptional performance and accuracy under demanding conditions.

The Oyster Bracelet and Oysterlock Clasp: Security and Comfort

The Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer II 216570 is fitted with a solid-link Oyster bracelet in 904L Oystersteel. The Oyster bracelet is known for its durability and comfort. The 216570 features the Oysterlock clasp, a robust and secure folding clasp that prevents accidental opening. The clasp also incorporates the Easylink comfort extension system, allowing the wearer to easily adjust the bracelet length by approximately 5mm without tools. This is a practical feature for adjusting the fit throughout the day as wrist size fluctuates due to temperature or activity levels.

Wearing the Rolex Explorer II 216570: On the Wrist and in Action

The Rolex Explorer II 216570 offers a compelling wearing experience. The 42mm case size provides a substantial presence on the wrist without feeling overly large or cumbersome. The Oyster bracelet is comfortable for daily wear, and the Easylink extension system ensures a perfect fit. The watch’s weight feels balanced and reassuring, conveying a sense of quality and robustness.

The legibility of the Explorer II 216570 is exceptional, even in challenging lighting conditions. The Maxi dial and Chromalight luminescence make it easy to read the time at a glance, day or night. The GMT function is intuitive to use, and the 24-hour bezel is clearly marked. Whether navigating city streets or exploring the outdoors, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer II 216570 is a reliable and versatile companion.

While designed for adventure, the Explorer II 216570 also possesses a subtle elegance that allows it to transition seamlessly from rugged environments to more formal settings. Its understated design and robust functionality make it a versatile choice for watch enthusiasts who appreciate both style and substance.

Market Value and Investment Potential of the Rolex Explorer II 216570

The Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer II 216570 has consistently been a popular model in the Rolex lineup. While officially discontinued in 2021 and replaced by the reference 226570, the 216570 remains highly sought after on the pre-owned market. Rolex watches are generally known for their excellent value retention, and the Explorer II 216570 is no exception. Due to its relatively short production run and iconic design elements, particularly the orange hand and Maxi dial, the 216570 has seen strong demand in the secondary market.

The price of a pre-owned Rolex Explorer II 216570 will vary depending on condition, completeness of set (box and papers), and dial color. Generally, both the black and white dial versions command strong prices, often exceeding their original retail price. For many collectors and enthusiasts, the Rolex Explorer II 216570 represents not just a functional timepiece but also a sound investment.

Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer II 216570

The Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer II 216570 successfully bridged the gap between heritage and modernity. It paid homage to the iconic Explorer II lineage while incorporating contemporary design elements and technical advancements. Its larger size, Maxi dial, distinctive orange hand, and robust Caliber 3187 movement made it a standout model in the Rolex catalog. While now discontinued, the Rolex Explorer II 216570 continues to captivate watch enthusiasts with its blend of rugged functionality, timeless design, and investment potential. It stands as a testament to Rolex's enduring commitment to creating watches that are not only beautiful but also built to withstand the rigors of exploration and everyday life. The Explorer II 216570 is more than just a watch; it's a symbol of adventure, reliability, and enduring style.