Home – Rolex Explorer II “Polar” 16570 Box & Papers Set

The Rolex Explorer II is one of the great modern classic sports watches, originally introduced in 1971 as a purpose-built tool watch for explorers, particularly those working in caves and other environments where distinguishing day from night could prove difficult. Its distinctive fixed 24-hour bezel and additional hour hand made it a highly practical companion for adventurers, while establishing a design that has become one of Rolex’s most recognisable.

The reference 16570, introduced in 1989, represented a significant evolution of the Explorer II, combining the classic design of its predecessors with modern refinements. Featuring a 40mm Oyster case, sapphire crystal and independently adjustable hour hand, it offered genuine dual-time functionality while retaining the understated proportions and character of a traditional Rolex sports watch.

This particular example dates to 2003 and features the highly desirable “Polar” white dial, one of the most distinctive configurations in the Rolex sports collection. With its contrasting black hour markers and hands, the Polar offers superb legibility and a striking appearance, making it a firm favourite amongst collectors.

Powered by the robust Rolex calibre 3185 automatic movement, the 16570 is renowned for its reliability and everyday practicality. Its slimmer case profile and classic Oyster bracelet give it a distinctly different feel to the larger Explorer II models that followed, making it one of the most wearable modern classic Rolex references.

Importantly, this example is presented in excellent, sharp and unpolished condition, retaining its original case definition and even its original caseback sticker – a particularly pleasing detail to find on a watch now over twenty years old.

The watch is accompanied by an excellent collector’s set, including its original box, still retaining the reference and dial colour stickers, original papers, booklets, tag and further accessories. Originally sold in Japan, it is a beautifully preserved and particularly complete example of this increasingly appreciated reference.

A superb example of the classic Polar Explorer II, combining excellent originality, condition and completeness with the timeless design and everyday wearability that have made the 16570 such a favourite amongst Rolex collectors.