Introduction and Early Years (1989)

The Rolex Explorer II 16570 was introduced as an update to the previous model, the 16550. It retained many of the features that made the Explorer II line popular but also introduced several enhancements. Key features included:

• Case and Bezel: The 16570 featured a 40mm stainless steel case with a fixed 24-hour bezel, allowing the wearer to distinguish between day and night, an essential feature for explorers in environments like caves or polar regions.

• Movement: Initially, the 16570 was powered by the Rolex Caliber 3185 movement, offering a GMT function that enabled the tracking of two time zones.

• Dial and Hands: The model came with a choice of either a white (polar) or black dial. It featured large, luminous hour markers and the signature "Mercedes" hands for better legibility in low-light conditions.

Updates and Evolution (1990s-2000s)

Throughout its production run, the 16570 saw several updates and changes:

• Lume Material: In the early 1990s, Rolex transitioned from using tritium (noted by the "T<25" on the dial) to Luminova and eventually Super-Luminova, enhancing the watch's luminosity and safety.

• Movement Upgrade: Around 2005, the 16570 was updated with the Caliber 3186 movement, which included a more refined Parachrom Bleu hairspring for improved accuracy and resistance to magnetic fields.

Design Consistency

One of the defining features of the 16570 was its consistent design. Unlike many other Rolex models, the Explorer II retained its core aesthetic elements throughout its production, which included:

• 24-Hour Hand: The bright orange 24-hour hand was a nod to the original Explorer II from the 1970s, offering high visibility.

• Cyclops Lens: The date window at 3 o’clock featured the Cyclops lens for easy reading.

Popularity and Legacy

The 16570 became a favorite among collectors and enthusiasts due to its ruggedness, reliability, and distinctive design. It was seen as a versatile watch that could be worn in extreme conditions as well as in everyday life. Its relatively long production run also meant that there were many variations and small updates, making it a rich field for collectors to explore.

Discontinuation and Succession (2011)

In 2011, the 16570 was discontinued and replaced by the Explorer II 216570, which featured a larger 42mm case, updated movement (Caliber 3187), and a more modern design. Despite this, the 16570 continues to be highly regarded in the pre-owned market for its classic design and historical significance.

Model Specifics:

P-Serial dating to 2000. Original papers and authentic Rolex box included.