Rolex Explorer II Steel 16570 - 2009

Rolex Explorer II Ref. 16570

The Rolex Explorer II with reference 16570 from 2009 is an absolute favorite among enthusiasts of classic neo-vintage sports models. Designed for explorers who had to keep track of their surroundings in caves or polar regions without daylight, this five-digit reference combines functional robustness with the coveted classic 40 mm proportions. The 2009 model year belongs to the late, most technically refined phase of the Ref. 16570 and combines the charming tool-watch look of the late 2000s with modern Geneva quality standards and immense value retention.

• Classic 40 mm Oystersteel case: The case impresses with its perfectly balanced 40 mm diameter. The satin-finished surfaces and curved flanks give the watch a sporty, understated profile that sits noticeably slimmer on the wrist than its modern successors.

• Fixed bezel with 24-hour graduation: The distinctive brushed stainless steel bezel with its deeply engraved, black-filled numerals is the unmistakable hallmark of the Explorer II. In combination with the additional 24-hour hand, it enables the wearer to distinguish between day and night without error.

• Distinctive dial with excellent contrast: Whether in radiant Polar white (Polar Dial) with iconic black-outlined hour markers or deep Black with White Gold surrounds, the hour markers and hands are filled with Super-LumiNova, ensuring excellent legibility at night.

• Independent 24-hour hand for a second time zone: The striking red GMT hand with its luminous arrow tip can be used perfectly in combination with the independently adjustable main hour hand to display a second time zone (home or reference time) simultaneously.

• Refined in-house movement (3185 / 3186): Inside this late-production model is the proven Automatic Cal. 3185 or, in very late examples, the coveted Cal. 3186 with its antimagnetic Parachrom Breguet hairspring. Both movements are regarded in the watch world as virtually indestructible workhorses with high rate accuracy.

• Late-period rehaut engraving (3186 era / V series): As a 2009 model, this watch features the sought-after engraved rehaut (inner bezel engraving with Rolex lettering and serial number at 6 o’clock) as well as fully closed lug holes (No-Holes Case), making it particularly attractive to collectors.

• Scratch-resistant Sapphire Crystal with Cyclops lens: The flat Sapphire Crystal reliably protects the dial from scratches, while the integrated date magnifier at 3 o’clock enlarges the date display two and a half times for optimal convenience.

• Satin-finished Oyster bracelet with Oysterlock clasp: This adventure classic is worn on the robust, three-row Oystersteel bracelet (Ref. 93250) with fully satin-finished links and a safety folding clasp.

• Sought-after late-production example of a timeless classic (2009 model year): As one of the final production years before the transition to the 42 mm generation (Ref. 21570), this 2009 example combines the best of both worlds: the charmingly compact five-digit design and the most advanced movement and case technology of its era.