Rolex
Explorer II
216570
The definitive 42 mm Explorer II — bold, legible, and built for extremes.
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Overview
The Rolex Explorer II reference 216570 represents the second generation of the 42 mm Explorer II, introduced in 2011 as a refinement of the enlarged format that Rolex had established with its predecessor. Offered in both a crisp white "Polar" dial and a classic black dial, the reference quickly became a benchmark for legible, purpose-built sport watches. Powered by the in-house calibre 3187, it combined robust engineering with the clean, purposeful aesthetic that has long defined the Explorer II line.
History
The Explorer II lineage traces back to 1971, originally conceived for spelunkers and scientists working in environments where distinguishing day from night was impossible. The 216570 carried that heritage forward while broadening the watch's appeal to a wider audience of adventurers and collectors. Its decade-long production run, from 2011 to 2021, cemented its status as one of the most recognisable references in the modern Rolex sport catalogue. The reference was eventually succeeded by the 226570, which introduced further refinements to the movement and finishing.
Notable points
- 42 mm Oystersteel case offers a commanding wrist presence while remaining true to the Explorer II's tool-watch origins.
- The white 'Polar' dial variant — a nod to the ref. 16550 of the 1980s — became particularly sought-after among collectors for its high-contrast legibility.
- Calibre 3187 introduced a Parachrom hairspring and Paraflex shock absorbers, significantly improving resistance to shocks and magnetic fields.
- The fixed 24-hour bezel, graduated in two-tone black and red, allows unambiguous AM/PM reading — a core functional feature since the line's inception.
- A production span of roughly ten years gave the 216570 time to accumulate a strong secondary following, with both dial variants attracting dedicated collector communities.
