Today I finally get to review the successor to my favorite watch of all time. That’s right, we’re talking about the Explorer II, specifically the reference 16570. Unlike most stories of triumphant upgrades, this isn't a tale of simple improvement. The 16570 holds a special place in many collectors' hearts, and understanding its nuances – its strengths, weaknesses, and its place in the broader Rolex and even investment landscape – requires a deeper dive than a simple comparison to its predecessors or successors. This review will cover everything from its size and aesthetics to its investment potential and place within the Rolex family.
The Rolex Explorer II Ref. 16570: A Closer Look
The Rolex Explorer II reference 16570, produced from 1989 to 2011, represents a significant chapter in the Explorer II lineage. This generation is characterized by several key features that continue to make it highly sought after today. Its defining characteristic, and the one that immediately sets it apart from its predecessors, is the fixed bezel with a 24-hour graduated insert. This feature, crucial for cave exploration and other low-light situations, provides an additional layer of functionality beyond simple timekeeping.
The 16570 boasts a robust 40mm case, a size that many consider the “sweet spot” for a versatile sports watch. This is a point we'll delve into more extensively in the section on size and feel. The watch's case is crafted from 904L stainless steel, known for its resistance to corrosion and scratches. While not indestructible, the 16570's build quality is legendary, reflecting Rolex's commitment to durability and longevity.
The dial is where the 16570 truly shines (or, rather, *doesn't* shine, in the case of the highly sought-after black dial variant). The simple, uncluttered layout is a hallmark of Rolex's design philosophy. Large, luminous hour markers and hands ensure excellent legibility, even in challenging conditions. The orange hand, indicating the 24-hour time, is a striking visual element that adds to the watch's distinctive character. While the black dial is the most common and arguably the most iconic, the white dial version also has its devoted following.
Inside the 16570 beats the caliber 3185, a self-winding mechanical movement renowned for its accuracy and reliability. This movement is a workhorse, known for its robustness and relatively easy maintenance. While not a cutting-edge movement by today's standards, its dependability is a testament to Rolex's engineering prowess.
Rolex Explorer II Ref. 16570 Size Review
The 40mm case size of the 16570 is frequently cited as one of its greatest strengths. It's large enough to be easily visible and substantial on the wrist, yet not so oversized as to feel cumbersome or unwieldy. This makes it a versatile watch suitable for a wide range of wrist sizes and styles. For those with smaller wrists, the 16570 might feel slightly large, but it generally wears well due to its balanced proportions and lug-to-lug measurement. The lug-to-lug measurement is particularly important for wrist comfort. A shorter lug-to-lug dimension ensures the watch doesn't overhang the wrist, even on those with smaller wrists. This is a crucial factor in the overall comfort and wearability of the watch.
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