Founded in 1905 and headquartered in Geneva, Rolex has set the benchmark for Swiss watchmaking for well over a century. The Explorer II has always occupied a special place in the sports catalogue — originally designed for cavers and polar explorers who needed to distinguish day from night underground, it evolved into one of the most capable and characterful GMT watches Rolex has ever produced. The reference 16570, produced from 1989 to 2011, remains the last Explorer II in the beloved 40 mm format and is today widely regarded as one of the most underrated Rolex references on the market.

The Rolex Explorer II, reference 16570, is a beautifully resolved 40 mm Oystersteel GMT watch with a glossy black dial featuring applied luminescent hour markers, iconic Mercedes hands and the signature red-tipped 24-hour GMT hand for instant second time zone reading against the fixed engraved 24-hour bezel. A date display sits at 3 o'clock. As a 1999 model this is a transitional example carrying LumiNova — a detail that collectors of this reference will immediately appreciate. At its heart beats the in-house Rolex Calibre 3185, a Superlative Chronometer-certified movement with independently adjustable hour hand, running at 28,800 vph with a 50-hour power reserve and 31 jewels. A scratch-resistant sapphire crystal protects the dial. Water resistance is rated at 100 metres, backed by a Triplock screw-down crown. The watch is fitted on the original Oyster bracelet with flip-lock clasp. A full service has been carried out by Tempus, ensuring this Explorer II is ready for many more years of daily wear.

This Explorer II is from 1999, is in very good condition. Comes as a full set, all tags and papers are present. Full service by Tempus Uurwertechniek in May 2026.