Rolex Explorer II
Introduced in 1971, the Rolex Explorer II is the quintessential watch for adventurers and explorers alike. Designed to endure the most extreme conditions, it features a distinctive 24-hour hand, invaluable to speleologists and polar explorers to distinguish day from night...
Rolex Explorer II
Introduced in 1971, the Rolex Explorer II is the quintessential watch for adventurers and explorers alike. Designed...
Buying Advice
Choosing Your Rolex Explorer II
If you want to buy a Rolex Explorer II, the good news is that this collection stays exclusively in stainless steel Rolex territory, which keeps pricing more accessible than most Rolex sport models. A pre-owned Rolex Explorer II gives you a serious tool watch with dual-timezone capability, a fixed 24-hour bezel, and the kind of legibility that made this watch a favorite among adventurers and travelers. The Rolex Explorer II is available across several generations, and your main decisions come down to dial color, case size, and which reference fits your wrist and budget.
Dial Color: Black or Polar White
Every Rolex Explorer II comes in two dial options: black Rolex or the signature Rolex Polar dial in white. The black dial is understated and versatile, while the Polar white dial has become the more collectible option across all references. On the current Rolex Explorer II 226570, the white Rolex Polar variant typically commands a slight premium over the black. Both are excellent choices, so the decision is really about personal style.
Case Size: 40mm vs 42mm
The Rolex Explorer II has been produced in two case sizes. The Rolex Explorer II 16570 wore a Rolex 40mm case for over two decades. Starting with the Rolex Explorer II 216570 in 2011, the collection moved to 42mm, which is shared by the current 226570. The 40mm wears more compact and suits smaller wrists well, while the 42mm has a bolder presence without feeling oversized. Try both if you can.
Which Reference Should You Buy
The current-production 226570 runs the Caliber 3285 with a 70-hour power reserve and represents the most modern Explorer II available. The discontinued 216570 offers nearly the same 42mm look at a lower price point and is a strong value play. The 16570 appeals to collectors who prefer the classic 40mm proportions and neo-vintage character. For true vintage collectors, the Rolex Explorer II 1655 is the original and most historically significant reference.
Rolex Explorer II Price
The Rolex Explorer II price depends on the reference and condition. Pre-owned 16570 examples start around $7,000 to $9,000. The 216570 typically trades between $8,000 and $12,000. Current-production 226570 models range from approximately $10,000 to $14,000 on the secondary market. Polar white dials carry a modest premium over black across all three references. Because the Explorer II is produced exclusively in stainless steel, there are no gold or two-tone variants that push pricing higher, making this one of the most approachable Rolex sport watches on the market.
"The Explorer II is one of the best-kept secrets in the Rolex sport lineup. Think about how you will actually wear it: daily driver, travel companion, or weekend adventure watch? That answer will point you to the right reference and dial. Need help narrowing it down? Call us or text us."
Rolex Explorer II Buyer's Guide
Explore the full history, every major reference number, pricing breakdown, detailed specifications, and expert buying advice.
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Why Buy a Rolex Explorer II From WatchGuys
When you shop pre-owned Rolex Explorer II watches for sale at WatchGuys, every piece is inspected, verified, and backed by our commitment to accuracy and transparency. We carry used Rolex watches across all major collections, and our Explorer II selection includes current and discontinued references ready to ship overnight.
Authenticity Guaranteed
Every Rolex Explorer II we sell is inspected and verified by our in-house team. We guarantee authenticity on every watch, no exceptions.
Accurate Descriptions
Each listing includes detailed photos, honest condition notes, and full specifications so you know exactly what you are buying before you commit.
Competitive Pricing
Our prices are driven by real-time market data. We price every Rolex Explorer II competitively so you get a fair deal without the guesswork.
2-Year Warranty
Every purchase is protected by a 2-year WatchGuys warranty, giving you confidence that your Explorer II is covered long after the sale.
Buyer Protection
If your watch is faulty or varies from the description, you are covered by our full refund policy. Your satisfaction is guaranteed.
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Rolex Explorer II FAQ
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The Rolex Explorer II price varies by reference and condition. Pre-owned 16570 models start around $7,000 to $9,000. The 216570 trades between $8,000 and $12,000. Current-production 226570 examples range from approximately $10,000 to $14,000. Polar white dials typically carry a slight premium over black dials across all references.
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The Rolex Explorer II is available in 40mm and 42mm case sizes. The 16570 (produced 1989 to 2011) features the 40mm case. The 216570 and the current 226570 both use a 42mm case. All references are paired exclusively with the Oyster bracelet in stainless steel.
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Both share the 42mm Oystersteel case and the same overall design language. The 226570 upgraded to the Caliber 3285 with a 70-hour power reserve, compared to the 216570's Caliber 3187 with 48 hours. The 226570 also features slimmer lugs for improved wrist comfort and a slightly redesigned bracelet. The 216570 is discontinued and trades at a lower price point, making it a strong value option.
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Yes. The Rolex Explorer II is one of the most practical sport watches Rolex makes, and it has historically been one of the more fairly priced models on the secondary market. Pre-owned examples give you access to discontinued references like the 16570 and 216570 that are no longer available at authorized dealers, often at prices well below current retail.
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Check for original dial and hands, proper lume condition, and whether the watch comes with its original box and papers. On the 16570, look for signs of dial refinishing, especially on Polar white dials. Confirm the case has not been heavily polished by checking lug sharpness and the condition of the satin finish on the bracelet. Always buy from a trusted dealer who guarantees authenticity.
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The Rolex Explorer II has strong value retention relative to its retail price. The current 226570 trades close to its retail price on the secondary market, and discontinued references like the 16570 and 216570 have shown steady demand over time. The Polar white dial variant tends to hold a higher resale value than the black dial across all references.
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Yes. The Rolex Explorer II features an independent 24-hour hand and a fixed 24-hour graduated bezel, which together allow you to track a second time zone. It was originally designed to help cave explorers distinguish between day and night, but it functions as a fully capable GMT watch for travelers and professionals who work across time zones.
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Both are dual-timezone Rolex sport watches, but they serve different purposes. The Rolex GMT-Master II offers a rotating bezel that can track a third timezone and comes in a wider range of materials and bezel colors. The Rolex Explorer II keeps things simple with its fixed bezel, stainless-steel-only construction, and a generally lower price point. If you want versatility and a wider selection of styles, the GMT-Master II is the pick. If you want a focused, no-nonsense tool watch at a more accessible price, the Explorer II is hard to beat.
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