Explorer II 216570

The Rolex Explorer II 216570 marks the 40th anniversary of the Explorer II line, introduced in 2011 with a bold 42mm case and the return of the oversized orange GMT hand—a nod to the original 1971 reference. Designed for cave explorers and adventurers, this model’s fixed 24-hour bezel and independent GMT function make it a practical tool for tracking day and night or a second timezone, setting it apart from the more common rotating-bezel GMTs in Rolex’s lineup.

Reference 216570 comes in black or white “Polar” dials, both powered by the Caliber 3187—a movement exclusive to this model, featuring Paraflex shock absorbers and a 48-hour power reserve. The white dial’s high-contrast look attracts strong collector demand, often commanding a premium over the black, especially in unworn or full-set condition. Lume-filled markers and hands, plus the orange GMT arrow, add both legibility and character.

When buying, check for original bracelet links, correct dial configuration, and engraved rehaut (a security feature introduced by Rolex). Early production models (2011–2016) have slightly different handset proportions and dial fonts compared to later years, which some buyers prefer. The 216570 is less prone to dial or bezel swaps than vintage Explorers, but box and papers still add value, especially for the “Polar” variant in excellent condition.