Rolex Explorer II 216570

Buying Advice

About the Rolex Explorer II 216570

The Rolex Explorer II 216570 is a discontinued 42mm GMT sport watch produced from 2011 to 2021, offering one of the best value propositions in the pre-owned Rolex sport watch market. At WatchGuys, we carry pre-owned examples in both the black dial and the collectible white "Polar" dial. The 216570 features a 42mm Oystersteel case, a fixed 24-hour graduated steel bezel, and is powered by the Caliber 3187 movement with a 48-hour power reserve. Introduced for the Explorer II's 40th anniversary, the 216570 brought back the iconic orange 24-hour GMT hand that first appeared on the original 1655, along with oversized Chromalight hour markers for exceptional legibility. Within the broader Rolex Explorer II collection, the 216570 sits as the middle generation between the classic 40mm 16570 and the current-production Rolex Explorer II 226570, offering a modern 42mm case at a more accessible price point than its successor.

Rolex Explorer II 216570 Dial Options

The 216570 is available in two dial configurations: black and white (known as the Rolex Polar dial). The Polar white dial is the signature Explorer II look and the more collectible option, commanding a consistent premium over the black dial on the secondary market. Both dials feature oversized "Maxi" hour markers and Mercedes hands filled with Chromalight luminescent material that glows blue in low light. The orange arrow-tipped 24-hour hand is a defining visual element of this reference, used to track a second time zone or to distinguish day from night. The black dial features a subtle "phantom" effect where the base of the hands is painted black to blend into the dial surface. The 216570 is paired exclusively with the Oystersteel Oyster bracelet with an Oysterlock safety clasp and Easylink comfort extension.

Rolex Explorer II 216570 Price

Pre-owned Rolex Explorer II 216570 prices generally range from $8,000 to $12,000 depending on the dial, condition, and completeness. The Polar white dial typically trades $500 to $1,500 above the black dial in equivalent condition. Complete sets with box and papers command a premium over watch-only examples. As a discontinued reference, the 216570 offers the 42mm Explorer II experience at a significant discount compared to the current-production Rolex Explorer II 226570, which trades between $10,000 and $14,000. For buyers on a tighter budget, the previous-generation 40mm 16570 is available starting around $7,000. The Explorer II remains one of the most accessible Rolex sport watch families because it is produced exclusively in stainless steel with no precious metal variants. Browse all Rolex watches for the full selection.

Rolex Explorer II 216570 vs. 226570

The Rolex Explorer II 226570 replaced the 216570 in 2021 for the collection's 50th anniversary. Both share the 42mm Oystersteel case, fixed 24-hour steel bezel, orange GMT hand, and the choice of black or Polar white dials. The primary difference is the movement. The 226570 uses the newer Caliber 3285 with a 70-hour power reserve, a significant upgrade over the 216570's Caliber 3187 with 48 hours. The 226570 also features slimmer lugs for improved wrist comfort and a slightly updated bracelet. On the Polar dial, the 226570 uses a lacquer finish for a brighter white, while the 216570's Polar has a slightly warmer tone that some collectors prefer. The 216570 typically trades $2,000 to $4,000 below the 226570, making it a strong value choice for buyers who prioritize the 42mm Explorer II look and function over the latest movement technology. Browse the full Rolex Explorer collection for all available references.

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Why Buy a Rolex Explorer II 216570 From WatchGuys

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Common Questions

Rolex Explorer II 216570 FAQ

• What Is the Rolex Explorer II 216570?

  The Rolex Explorer II 216570 is a discontinued 42mm GMT sport watch produced from 2011 to 2021. It features a 42mm Oystersteel case, a fixed 24-hour graduated steel bezel, and is available with either a black or white "Polar" dial. The watch is powered by the Caliber 3187 self-winding movement with a 48-hour power reserve, Parachrom hairspring, and Paraflex shock absorbers. The iconic orange arrow-tipped 24-hour hand allows the wearer to track a second time zone or distinguish between day and night. It is paired with the Oystersteel Oyster bracelet and is water resistant to 100 meters.

• How Much Does a Rolex Explorer II 216570 Cost?

  Pre-owned Rolex Explorer II 216570 prices generally range from $8,000 to $12,000 depending on the dial color, condition, and completeness. The Polar white dial typically commands a premium of $500 to $1,500 over the black dial in equivalent condition. Complete sets with original box and papers trade at higher prices than watch-only examples. As a discontinued reference, the 216570 offers the 42mm Explorer II experience at a significant discount compared to the current-production 226570.

• Is the Rolex Explorer II 216570 Discontinued?

  Yes. The Rolex Explorer II 216570 was discontinued in 2021 when Rolex replaced it with the current-production 226570 for the Explorer II's 50th anniversary. Because it is no longer in production, the 216570 is only available on the pre-owned market. The fixed supply of discontinued references can support long-term value stability, and the 216570 benefits from strong collector interest in the Explorer II line. It remains one of the most accessible discontinued Rolex sport watches available.

• What Is the Difference Between the Rolex Explorer II 216570 and 226570?

  Both the 216570 and 226570 share the 42mm Oystersteel case, fixed 24-hour steel bezel, orange GMT hand, and the choice of black or Polar white dials. The primary difference is the movement. The 226570 uses the Caliber 3285 with a 70-hour power reserve, while the 216570 runs the Caliber 3187 with 48 hours. The 226570 also features slimmer lugs for a more refined wrist presence and uses a lacquer finish on the Polar dial for a brighter white tone. The 216570 typically trades $2,000 to $4,000 below the 226570 on the secondary market.

• Should I Choose the Black or Polar White Dial on the Rolex Explorer II 216570?

  Both dials are excellent choices and the decision comes down to personal style. The Polar white dial is the signature Explorer II look, offering high contrast and a distinctive appearance that sets it apart from nearly every other Rolex sport watch. It is also the more collectible option and typically commands a slight premium on the secondary market. The black dial is more understated and versatile, blending easily into daily wear. It features a subtle "phantom" effect where the hand bases are painted black to merge with the dial. Neither dial is objectively better, but the Polar has historically been the stronger resale performer.

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