Rolex
Explorer II
226570
The modern Explorer II — 42 mm of Oystersteel built for extremes.
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Overview
The Rolex Explorer II ref. 226570 is the current-generation iteration of a sport line with roots in the demands of cavers, polar researchers, and expedition professionals. Introduced in 2021, it pairs a 42 mm Oystersteel case with the in-house Calibre 3285, bringing the movement architecture of the Datejust 41 family into the Explorer II lineage. Two dial variants — a crisp matte black and the iconic white "Polar" — continue a tradition of high-contrast legibility under demanding conditions.
History
The Explorer II line was conceived in the early 1970s to address the needs of spelunologists and scientists working in environments where distinguishing day from night is impossible. The ref. 226570 succeeded the ref. 216570, refining the case proportions and upgrading the movement while retaining the signature large-tipped 24-hour hand and fixed bezel with engraved numerals. The "Polar" white dial, which became a hallmark of the line in the 1980s, remains one of the most recognisable dials in Rolex's sport catalogue. Since its 2021 debut, the 226570 has been regarded as the definitive modern expression of the Explorer II concept.
Notable points
- Calibre 3285 offers a 70-hour power reserve and features Rolex's Chronergy escapement, improving efficiency over earlier movements in the line.
- The fixed 24-hour graduated bezel — engraved and filled with black lacquer — allows wearers to distinguish AM from PM, a core functional purpose of the Explorer II.
- The large, distinctively tipped 24-hour hand (often called the 'orange hand') sweeps the bezel once every 24 hours, independent of the standard hour hand.
- Two dial references exist within the 226570: a matte black version and the 'Polar' white dial, the latter tracing its heritage to the 1980s generation of the model.
- The 42 mm Oystersteel case retains the robust, tool-watch proportions of its predecessor while benefiting from updated finishing and bracelet engineering.
