However, at Baselworld 2011, Rolex released a new version of the Explorer II – one that followed a design entirely unique to itself. Due to a paint defect, the white dials actually turned into a creamy ivory color after some time. Authentic Rolex Explorer II collection. Therefore, the Explorer II graduated from merely indicating day and night hours to a GMT watch, able to display a second time zone. Powering the Explorer II ref. Let’s delve into the history of the Rolex Explorer II and investigate its evolution through a handful of models. The bezel remained fixed and included the 24-hour scale but the design featured inverted triangles rather than sticks for odd numbers. It goes without saying that there are few anniversaries we love as much as watch anniversaries, especially as they start to push past the 40 year mark. Rolex expanded the case size from 40mm to 43mm and added a new movement and a Cyclops lens (much to the horror of many Sea-Dweller purists). favorite this post Jan 6 But with plenty of modern updates. 1655 did a great job of telling the wearer the exact time of day (or night) even in complete darkness. Rolex Explorer II: A Robust Watch for Adventurers. In 2012, Rolex filed for U.S. patent 9405374, a movement component that would allow a watch to use “mechanical memory” to “retain two independent time zones using a single set of hands” and a “switchover mechanism...allowing the time-display member to switch between [time zones].” Can we expect. The Submariner for divers, the GMT-Master for pilots, and the Explorer II for spelunkers. 1655, sporting a 39mm stainless steel case and matching steel bracelet. what are we likely to see? Why not? Stunning photographs of the Rolex Explorer II Ref. The 24-hour hand was now also longer and thinner. Each of these additions were made with the adventurer in mind. Often, the fiftieth anniversary edition of a watch includes some use of the color green, Rolex’s primary brand color. If you know Rolex, you know that it’s a very purposeful company, which focuses on making watches, functions, and design features which have a purpose, outside of the visual part. Another popular nickname of the Explorer II ref. A common nickname for white dial versions of the Explorer II, regardless of the specific model, is the “Polar Explorer.”. Explorer II Rolex 216570 Explorer II with White Dial $ 11,875.00. In honor of the original Explorer II ref. And in true vintage Rolex fashion, that “defect” commands a premium price in the market over its black dial counterpart! Rolex expanded the case size from 40mm to 43mm and added a new movement and a Cyclops lens (much to the horror of many Sea-Dweller purists). Shop & Save! His Rolex of choice was a Submariner. It’s interesting to think that on the one hand, Rolex produces fine luxury watches on a large scale for the general population (who can afford them, of course). Bulgari’s Octo Finissimo is a Fashion Watch for Watchmaking Snobs, Don’t Forget These Four Things When Buying Vintage Watches. For the differences, here is a simplified chart outlining the different Explorer II models, complete with production dates and specs. Leading up to the 50th anniversary of the Sub, predictions littered online forums. The green dial on this gold precious metal GMT brought a sleek emerald dial to a beloved GMT complication watch. What Does a Complete Rolex Box and Papers Look Like in 2021. 50 Years. 1655 featuring a 39mm stainless steel case, a date display, a bright orange 24-hour hand, a fixed bezel with 24-hour graduations, and a stainless steel Oyster bracelet. by Li Wang January 21, 2021 While it’s hard for us to imagine being committed to a person for that length of time, it’s easy to see how 50 years could pass in an instant when you’re a luxury watch brand with hundreds of thousands of loyal fans. There’s an intriguing feature for Rolex collectors on the white dial version of the Explorer II ref. We buy, trade, and sell Rolex Explorer II. GMT-Master manufactured during the same era. Conversely, the Explorer II started out as a 39 mm Rolex watch, then grew to 40 mm with the 16550, and finally grew again to 42mm with the Explorer ref. $10,999. Rolex Explorer II History & Background. A step by step tutorial on how to operate the Rolex Explorer II. 16570 was the use of black outlines surrounding the round hour-markers on the white dials rather than the more traditional white gold ones. Overall, the Explorer II Polar ticks a lot of boxes for those who dare to step outside of the glam of popular sports models offered by Rolex. Day Night. Celine is a freelance luxury watch writer who has enjoyed working in the horology industry for over ten years. In 1989, Rolex unveiled yet another updated version of the Explorer II with the ref. Rolex Explorer II History. The thin green line that encircles the Milgauss’s dial is a new addition, added in 2007 to reference 116400. Therefore, Explorer II ref. The inaugural reference was the Explorer II ref. Before we dive into our predictions, let’s recap what Rolex did to commemorate the 50th anniversary edition of other references. 2015 Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Box, Papers & Booklets 26402CE.OO. 16550 was only in production for four years until 1989. would respect the rugged tool watch history of the Explorer II and make the reference more available to a wider number of people. First came tritium (labeled with SWISS T < 25). Rolex Explorer II 1655 – Orange 24-Hour Hand (1971-1984) The reference 1655 was the first iteration of the Rolex Explorer II. 1963 Rolex Submariner 5513 Gilt Underline Dial with PCG. Given its manufacturing time frame (1971 to 1985), Rolex used self-luminous tritium for luminescence as illustrated by the “T SWISS T” marking below 6 o’clock. One with a white dial. Despite its lackluster start, not only is the Explorer II still surviving, it’s actually thriving as one of Rolex’s most popular sports watches. However, … $8,199. In 1971, Rolex unveiled the Explorer II as the larger sibling to the original Explorer I wristwatch. ROLEX SERVICE THE HEART OF THE EXPLORER II MODEL The Oyster Perpetual Explorer II is the watch of choice for explorers. As with most vintage Rolex watches that were in production for a good amount of time, the Explorer ref. is also a possibility, since most Rolex references debut in precious metal, move into two tone mixed-metal, and finally land in stainless steel. Available in two colours: black and white. The new Explorer II, the reference 216570, featured a brand new movement – one never before seen in any other Rolex model – the caliber 3187, and also featured a larger, 42 mm case. 16570 are notably different from early examples of the same model. In Rolex-speak, “transitional references” refer to those models that include features of preceding versions along with additional modifications that pave the way for the design of future references. Pre-Owned Rolex Explorer II (16570) self - winding automatic watch, features a 40mm stainless steel case surrounding a black dial on a stainless steel Oyster bracelet with folding buckle. Contact Information. Rolex is proud to announce its latest collection of timeless watches. Moreover, although the dial layout stayed the same, another signature difference of the Explorer II ref. The first Rolex Explorer II, underwent through some minor updates, as we’re used from Rolex in that era. Our best guesses vary widely, but all of them are possibilities for the 2021 Explorer II. We will see that later on in the Explorer II’s history, Rolex did make changes so that the watch eventually became a dual-time timepiece. Reference 116506 was released in 2013 and sold for a retail price of $75,000. For this 50th anniversary update, Rolex pioneered the manufacturing of a tinted green sapphire crystal. To top it all off, the Sea-Dweller text was rendered in red, a coy nod to the beloved Double Red Sea-Dweller 1665. That’s right, spelunkers — adventurers who explore caves. Two different versions are available. Rolex Watch Sizes and Dimensions Guide When looking for a watch, the size and dimensions are extremely important to consider. We all have a place we are proud to call home. The history of the Rolex Explorer II is a fascinating one. The Rolex Explorer II is a striking work of art, a beauty of a watch. This watch has … Nevertheless, the Explorer II ref. The Caliber 3085 movement now meant that the 24-hour hand could be adjusted independently from the traditional hour hand to point to a specific numeral on the fixed 24-hour bezel. , a vision in monochrome black or white with a sexy arrow-style GMT. Why not? Like many of the high-end timepieces she writes about, she comes from Switzerland—the heart of fine watchmaking. 3 min read 0 Comments, by Theresa DiMartini January 18, 2021 It separates itself from the earlier Explorer models with a fixed steel bezel, lume plots circling the dial, a date display at 3 o’clock, and the well-loved bright orange 24-hour hand. 214270 in 2010, when the watch grew to 39 mm. Rolex made the Explorer II ref. The Rolex Explorer II 16570 is part of Rolex’s lineup as the second generation – thereby the name Explorer II. Evolution of the Rolex Explorer and Explorer II Watches. What’s more, it has always come equipped with a fixed 24-hour bezel and an extra 24-hour hand. 1655 that made it particularly practical for them. Up to 35% off pre-owned Rolex watches. Buy Now- Compare. Rolex is known for retooling, redesigning, and refining references on the 50th anniversary of their debuts. 2011 marked the 40th anniversary of the Explorer II. Depending on your wrist size and preference, you may want to look for a larger or a smaller watch. Like its predecessor, the Explorer II ref. Experts surmise that the crystal includes copper and aluminum oxide to contribute to the unique green tint, but only Rolex knows for sure. White Explorer II 216570. You’ll love how your Rolex Explorer and your Rolex Explorer II look on a rubber strap as you eagerly await next year’s new reference. The most common measurement of a watch that we look at is the diameter. 1655 watches, each with slight differences in logo styles and/or font. But of course, unlike the original, the current Explorer II is a dual-time watch with a second time zone display thanks to the independent 24-hour hand. as you eagerly await next year’s new reference. The current-production Explorer II ref. The blue hue that comes alive in low light can last up to eight hours, which is double that of standard luminescent material. 16550. Add to wishlist. Besides the colour, they were fitted with a sapphire crystal and a new movement (caliber 3085). Rolex Oyster Perpetual Air-King 116900. favorite this post Jan 7 NICE LADIES ROLEX WATCH $2,000 (sea > Seattle) pic hide this posting restore restore this posting. 16570 models made from the mid-2000s and after feature this engraved rehaut. 1655. Leading up to the 50th anniversary of the Sub, predictions littered online forums. The watch that kickstarted the twee naming trend for new references and inspired a whole new generation of watch buyers to pivot towards the Submariner. Functions include hours, minutes, seconds, date and GMT. Reference 16550 and those following placed the chronometer in the company of Rolex’s other GMT-capable watches. Therefore, because the 24-hour hand points to either 10 hours or 22 hours, the wearer can now know whether it’s day or night. First, there was the new Caliber 3185 in the earlier Explorer II ref. Against the white dial, it’s a striking look indeed. Usually, the platinum anniversary is the 70th anniversary, but considering how beautiful this watch is, we’ll give Rolex a pass. The other with a black dial. However, those red ones actually faded orange over time, so today, all of the 24-hour hands found on Explorer II ref. 1956 Rolex Explorer 6610 with Red Depth Gilt Dial. One of the more subtle 50th Anniversary references was the Sea-Dweller reference 126600. To balance the large case, the hands and lume plots on the “Maxi Dial” also grew in size for even better legibility. Also channeling the original Explorer II, the ref. Unable to shed it’s uncanny ability to pair with any outfit, occasion, or adventure, the Explorer II will proficiently take over your wrist for months at … A Rolesor Explorer II is also a possibility, since most Rolex references debut in precious metal, move into two tone mixed-metal, and finally land in stainless steel. Our best guesses vary widely, but all of them are possibilities for the 2021 Explorer II. Its 42mm case, 16550 brought the larger 40mm case size, a sapphire crystal, and Caliber 3085. When the 50th Anniversary edition of the Rolex Explorer II hits. $32,550. There actually isn’t any photographic evidence that Steve McQueen ever sported an Explorer II. The Rolex Explorer II Ref 216570. The Rolex Explorer II is a robust and reliable tool watch. Explorer II. Is a two tone Explorer in the works? 216570. Rolex New Explorer II 216570 Stainless Steel 2019 Box/Paper/5YrWarranty #RL118. It draws on the Ref 1655 for inspiration. The Explorer II is powered by the newest Rolex caliber 3187 automatic movement. The Explorer II ref. Here is a watch that has been in production for one year shy of a decade and, until recently, hasn’t exactly been a fan favourite. In addition to the luminescent markers every five minutes, there are small luminous squares at every 2.5 minutes too. With its introduction, the transitional Explorer II ref. $29,350. Before we dive into our predictions, let’s recap what Rolex did to commemorate the 50th anniversary edition of other references. $26,550 1655 watches look orange! 1016 came to an end, a new era for the Explorer series began with the introduction of the Explorer II. The Explorer II debuted in 1971 with the Reference 1655. Modern versions combine a generously sized case along with a practical dual time display. Rolex believed the manufacture is so complex that no other watchmaker would even attempt it. A black ceramic bezel on the Explorer II would be visually interesting, but would that material respect the Explorer’s provenance, legacy, and purpose? 5285 International Drive Orlando, FL 32819. In a world of Cerachrom bezels and Rolesor cases, the 16570’s unassuming looks and subdued details allow it to fly under the radar and onto the wrists of those who long for Rolex’s notorious quality and design without the stigma. You’ll love how your Rolex Explorer and, your Rolex Explorer II look on a rubber strap. To celebrate the 40th anniversary of the model, Rolex presented the Explorer II ref. hand. That must be the origin of that classic old adage: “Relationships come and go but a Submariner is forever?” At least we think it goes something like that. Explorer II was a manned U.S. high-altitude balloon that was launched on November 11, 1935, and reached a record altitude of 22,066 m (72,395 ft). And because these watches were created specifically for spelunkers, there are a few key features on the ref. Characterized by its steel construction and 24-hour engraved bezel, the Explorer II is a Rolex sports watch that has undergone notable design changes over the decades. Featuring a 24-hour display by means of an additional hand and a graduated fixed bezel, the watch allows the wearer to distinguish daytime from night-time hours or to read the time in two time zones simultaneously. 16570 for 22 years and as such, this particular reference underwent several changes over the course of its production run. 16570 in 1989 to replace the preceding ref. About Rolex Explorer II Watches One of the most iconic Explorer models is the Reference 1016, which was in production for an impressive 26 years. The response from collectors was unequivocally warm, and the Kermit remains an incredibly popular investment piece… if you can get your hands on it, that is. Add to … All watches, likeness, and logos are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners. The 50th Anniversary edition of the Daytona outfitted the beloved chronograph with an ice-blue dial and a chocolate brown ceramic bezel and subdials. 216570 is offered with either a black dial or a white “Polar” dial. 1655, sporting a 39mm stainless steel case and matching steel bracelet. Our fingers are crossed for this. 1016 had already enjoyed 8 years of success by the time Rolex decided, in 1971, to release their first sequential model, the Explorer II ref. by Aleta Saeger November 18, 2020 Experts surmise that the crystal includes copper and aluminum oxide to contribute to the unique green tint, but only Rolex knows for sure. The 50th Anniversary GMT arrived in 2005 and stayed in production until April 2020, when it was discontinued. Although it’s a completely revamped and modern model, it also pays a fitting tribute to the inaugural Explorer II ref. Discover the innovative features and iconic aesthetics of the 2020 Rolex watches. That, coupled with the date window at 3 o’clock, makes this the ideal watch not just for adventurers, but global travelers too. Explorer II Rolex 216570 Explorer II with White Dial $ 10,475.00. Yet, on the other hand, if you look at many of their collections, they were, in fact, initially created for a very niche audience. For this 50th anniversary update, Rolex pioneered the. Designed for the extremes, these tool watches were created to tell time accurately, whatever the circumstances. 1655 with an orange 24-hour hand, later replacing it with a red one. The Explorer II has always been exclusively made in stainless steel, it has always come fitted with an Oyster bracelet, and it has always had a water resistance rating of 100 meters. Rolex released the Explorer II ref. As the long-reign of the Ref. Rolex Sea Dweller Deepsea Blue Dial Oyster Bracelet Stainless Steel Mens 126660. 1655 runs on the Rolex Caliber 1575. 216570, Explorer II still surviving, it’s actually thriving as one of Rolex’s most popular sports watches, Only Watch 2017 Ulysse Nardin Marine Tourbillon, Five of Our Favorite Cartier Watches for Men, Tuning Into The Audemars Piguet Millenary Quincy Jones. By adding a green bezel to the Submariner, Rolex respected the integrity of the reference while adding the tiniest bit of whimsy to it. It was in production till 1984, when they introduced a new Rolex Explorer II, reference 16550. 216570 performs exceptionally well in the dark thanks to the Chromalight display. The Explorer II 21657 is a Super Case 42mm diameter (45mm including crown). 1965 Rolex GMT-Master 1675 Glossy Gilt Dial with "Pepsi" Insert. $26,550. The logic behind this was that folks that explore caves are often in the dark, thus, can’t tell the difference between AM and PM. It continued to sell well during that time, providing collectors with a dressier, precious metal version of a classic GMT. Gray and Sons Jewelry & Watch Specialists Blog. Discover the broad selection of Rolex watches to find a … 16550 with the option of a black or white dial rather than just black. Rolex GMT-Master II Stainless Steel Watch Black Dial 116710LN. The first is “Freccione” derived from the Italian word for arrow, “freccia,” which is in reference to its famous arrow-tipped hand. The inaugural reference was the Explorer II ref. While early models ran on Caliber 3185, later models housed the Caliber 3186. Buy New Rolex Explorer II Stainless Steel Mens Watch 216570 W and other Wrist Watches at Amazon.com. Collectors wondered how Rolex could improve upon perfection, or risk altering what’s been their bestselling reference since 1960. the green crystal doesn’t have a patent. Taking all these evolutionary changes to this particular long-running reference into account, later examples of the Explorer II ref. 16550 presented in 1985. 1655 underwent a few dial modifications within the same reference. Its design means it is easy to read at a glance. Rolex Explorer I Models: (left to right) 1016, 14270, 214270. 1655 was not a popular model during its era, today it’s a different story. When the 50th Anniversary edition of the Rolex Explorer II hits HourUniverse in 2021, what are we likely to see? Rolex believed the manufacture is so complex that no other watchmaker would even attempt it. The Explorer II began its life as a 36 mm Rolex watch and continued as such for decades until the introduction of the ref. When it comes to Rolex, almost anything is possible... We’re partial to Explorer models here at Everest, because our name shares some history with the history of the Rolex Explorer. The thin green line that encircles the Milgauss’s dial is a new addition, added in 2007 to reference 116400. $8,350. 16570 models. 16550 with a couple of notable upgrades. $2,000. Its highly legible dial, extremely resistant Oystersteel and waterproofness have made it the watch for the extremes. on The History and Evolution of the Rolex Explorer II, Rolex Dive Watches: Submariner vs. Sea-Dweller vs. Deepsea, A Rendezvous with the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date, the Explorer II ref. About FAQ Contact us 1442 Dresden Drive, NE, Suite 255, Atlanta, GA. 30319. While the Explorer II ref. It had many of the same features of the preceding ref. $31,950. There are at least five Marks (MK) dials documented among vintage Explorer II ref. There are three distinct generations of 24-hour hands that have appeared over the lifetime of the Rolex Explorer II, let’s take a closer look. Finally, Rolex changed to SuperLuminova around 2000 and the dials are marked with “SWISS MADE” under six. Then in the late 1990s, Rolex switched to Luminova and the dials are labeled with “SWISS” under 6 o’clock. Never quite living up to the popularity of models like the Submariner or GMT Master II, I think the Explorer II has marched to the beat of its own drum since it was introduced and really has stood alone in the brand family. The Different GMT-Hands on the Rolex Explorer II. It’s important to note that Explorer II ref. Rolex watches are crafted with scrupulous attention to detail. The Rolex Explorer II has a storied place in Rolex brand history. Rolex Explorer II Ref. 1655. 2003 Unpolished Men's Rolex Explorer II White Polar 16570T Watch $7,350 (Bellevue) pic hide this posting restore restore this posting. 216570 by @nicedily In my opinion, though, the model that was most ready for a reboot was the divisive Explorer II Ref.216570. While the Explorer model, like the others, is a child of the late 1950s; unlike the others, it has two current models, both popular, but also quite different. Explore the Rolex collection of prestigious, high-precision timepieces. The Explorer II ref. It’s also worth noting that Rolex began engraving the rehaut (the space between the dial and the crystal) of its watches with “ROLEX ROLEX ROLEX” starting in the mid-2000s as an anti-counterfeiting measure. Furthermore, Rolex changed the luminescent material a few times. Arrived in 2005 and stayed in production for four years until 1989 the white dials rather the! On this gold precious metal version of the Explorer II ref 1/2/3/4/5 dials 1655 did a job... Models of the high-end timepieces she writes about, she comes from Switzerland—the HEART the! Watch includes some use of black outlines surrounding the round hour-markers on the 50th anniversary editions, and Caliber ). 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