Rolex Explorer II

Rolex Explorer II Popular References

Reference 226570

The Rolex 226570 is the current Explorer II and the most significant update the line has seen in a decade. Rolex bumped the movement to the Cal. 3285, which brought a 70-hour power reserve and improved magnetic resistance through the use of a Chronergy escapement. The case remained at 42mm, but Rolex redesigned the bracelet with a new Oysterlock clasp and Glidelock extension system, which made it meaningfully more comfortable for daily wear.

It's available in two dial configurations: white (nicknamed "polar" by the community, though Rolex doesn't use that name officially) and black. Both feature applied hour markers, a large date window at 3 o'clock, and the fixed 24-hour graduated bezel that defines the Explorer II. The white dial version has consistently been the stronger seller and the easier resale, but both are solid watches. If you're buying new to the Explorer II, this is where to start.

Reference 216570

The 216570 was the watch that brought the Explorer II into the modern era in terms of case size. Before it, the 16570 had sat at 40mm for over two decades, and the jump to 42mm was debated when it happened. In hindsight, the sizing feels right. The watch wears well on a range of wrist sizes, and the larger dial gives the applied markers room to breathe.

The Cal. 3187 inside the Rolex 216570 was a solid performer, featuring a Parachrom hairspring and Paraflex shock absorbers. It's not as advanced as the current 3285, but it's a dependable, well-regarded movement that's easy to service. Pre-owned examples are widely available at prices well below the current reference, making this a smart entry point for buyers who want the modern Explorer II look without paying for a new production model.

Reference 16570

The reference 16570 ran for over 20 years and is the most common vintage Explorer II you'll find on the secondary market. It came in white, black, and a subset of early examples with a cream "polar" dial that has become a collector obsession. Standard examples are reasonably priced relative to newer references, which makes them an attractive option for buyers who want a legitimate tool-watch-era Explorer II without stretching into true vintage territory.

Movement-wise, the Rolex 16570 used the Cal. 3185 and later the Cal. 3186, both solid automatic movements with quickset date and a GMT complication. The 40mm case will feel smaller to buyers used to modern watches, but many people find it wears more comfortably. If the polar dial interests you, be prepared for a significant price premium and make sure you're buying from a trusted source, as fakes and refinished dials exist in this market.

Reference 16550

The 16550 reference replaced the original 1655 and brought a cleaner, more modern look to the Explorer II. Rolex dropped the "Freccione" arrow hand in favor of a thinner, more refined GMT hand, and updated the case to include sapphire crystal. The dial options included white, black, and a cream variant that's now one of the rarest and most desirable Explorer II configurations.

Collectors pay serious attention to the Rolex 16550. The cream dials in particular are subject to significant variation in tone and aging, and buyers should approach these with both enthusiasm and caution. Have any candidate thoroughly authenticated before purchasing. Even the more standard examples of this reference carry strong collector appeal due to the relatively short production run.

Reference 1655

The 1655 reference is the original. Rolex introduced it in 1971 as a tool for cave explorers and scientists working in environments where daylight wasn't a reliable time reference. The hallmark of the 1655 is its thick orange "Freccione" GMT hand, named for the Italian word for big arrow. It's one of the most recognizable hands in vintage watch collecting.

The Rolex 1655 is entirely a collector's piece at this point. It was worn by scientists on Antarctic expeditions and has a legitimate exploration heritage that few watches can match. Condition, originality, and provenance drive price heavily in this reference. Unpolished cases, original tropical dials, and matching serial-to-case examples command strong premiums. If you're buying a 1655, know the market or buy from a dealer with a documented authentication process.

Popular Nicknames

The Rolex Explorer II has picked up many charming nicknames over the years, each adding to the story of this iconic timepiece. One of the most popular Explorer II monikers is the Steve McQueen or McQueen Explorer II, which are inspired by the legendary actor who was rumored to have once worn the watch. Even though those rumors are false, the name endures. Another common nickname is the Polar Explorer II, which is inspired by the white dial edition of the watch, distinguishing it from the black dial Explorer II. Lastly, the Rolex Explorer II is sometimes called the "Freccione," taken from the Italian word for "big arrow," referring to the unique orange 24-hour hand. These monikers not only add character but also represent the timeless popularity and cultural impact of the Rolex Explorer II.

Rolex Explorer II Comparisons

Rolex 216570 vs Rolex 16570

The Rolex Explorer II 216570 and Rolex Explorer II 16570 both hail from the iconic Explorer II collection. The Rolex 216570, features a larger 42mm case and orange "Freccione" arrow hand, compared to the 40mm case and thinner red arrow hand of the Rolex 16570. Additionally, the 216570 features a newer movement, the caliber 3187, which boasts improved accuracy and dependability. These differences make the Rolex 216570 an appealing option for anyone seeking a contemporary and robust Explorer II, while the Rolex 16570 speaks to luxury watch enthusiasts who appreciate the traditional 40mm size and the history linked to the model.

Rolex 216570 vs Rolex 226570

The Rolex 216570 and Rolex Explorer II 226570 both belong to the Rolex Explorer II collection and have comparable features. However, there are differences worth noting. The Rolex 226570, released in 2021, features an updated movement, the caliber 3285, providing unparalleled accuracy and a longer 70-hour power reserve. Additionally, the Rolex 226570 sports a refined case and bracelet, giving the watch a refreshed design with thinned out lugs and a more comfortable size and weight. These upgrades make the Rolex 226570 an irresistible choice for those in the market for a watch with the latest innovations in watch making technology and a modern design, while the Rolex 216570 is still a solid choice for those who prefer the modern Explorer II aesthetic.

Expert Opinion

"The Rolex Explorer II is one of the most underrated watches in the Rolex catalog, consistently overlooked in favor of flashier sports models despite offering exceptional build quality, a clear purpose-built design, and strong long-term value retention. If you want a serious Rolex that doesn't announce itself in a room, the Explorer II is one of the best answers."

- Paul Altieri, Founder & CEO of Bob’s Watches

Sell Your Rolex

Unlock the value of your Rolex Explorer II with Bob's Watches, the trusted name in pre-owned luxury timepieces. Whether you're parting with your trusty companion from arctic expeditions or looking to upgrade to the latest Explorer II model, our expert team is here to ensure a seamless and rewarding experience. We understand the unique legacy of the Explorer II, from its robust design to its dual time zone functionality, and we're committed to offering you a fair and competitive price that reflects its true worth.

Our professional and transparent process makes selling your Rolex Explorer II as effortless as reading its distinctive orange 24-hour hand. Our team of certified watchmakers will carefully evaluate your timepiece, considering its condition, age, and any rare features like the sought-after "cream dial" of certain vintage models. With our industry-leading expertise, you can trust that your Explorer II is in capable hands throughout the entire selling process. Ready to embark on your next horological adventure? Visit our Sell Rolex Watch page today and discover how easy it is to transform your Explorer II into an opportunity for your next timepiece or investment.

Why Choose Bob's Watches

There are several reasons why you should choose Bob's Watches. Firstly, Bob’s Watches is a trusted and respected name in the used Rolex industry, with a strong reputation of offering genuine, high-quality watches. Secondly, Bob's Watches has a large on-site inventory of certified used Rolex watches, including both vintage and newer models, ensuring that collectors can find the exact style and model they desire. Additionally, Bob's Watches has a straight-forward and safe buying process, with detailed product listings, high-quality product photos, and a thorough authentication process, giving every customer peace of mind when buying a secondhand watch.

Specifications

Materials

The Rolex Explorer II case and bracelet are made from Oystersteel, Rolex's proprietary 904L stainless steel alloy. This material is harder and more corrosion resistant than the 316L steel used by most other watchmakers, and it takes a polish that holds up exceptionally well over time. The sapphire crystal on modern references is scratch-resistant and coated with an anti-reflective treatment on the inner surface.

Movement

The current 226570 is powered by the Caliber 3285, a self-winding mechanical movement manufactured in-house by Rolex. It delivers approximately 70 hours of power reserve, beats at 28,800 vph, and is certified as a Superlative Chronometer, meaning it's been tested by Rolex to a standard of +/- 2 seconds per day after leaving the factory.

Bezel

The Explorer II's fixed 24-hour graduated bezel is one of its defining features and what separates it from the GMT-Master II. Where the GMT-Master II uses a bidirectional rotating bezel to track a second time zone, the Explorer II's bezel is fixed and graduated from 1 to 24, designed to let the wearer read AM versus PM using the additional GMT hand.

Rolex has introduced multiple versions of this iconic timepiece over the years, featuring a variety of bezel color combinations and material upgrades. Explore the key features of the Rolex Explorer II through the detailed links provided below.