Rolex Explorer II 16570 Black Swiss Only Dial with Original Punched Paper

The Rolex Explorer II was introduced in 1971 as a rugged, professional tool watch designed for explorers, spelunkers, and adventurers operating in extreme conditions. Unlike the original Explorer (1953), which celebrated Everest expeditions and high-altitude exploration, the Explorer II was specifically made for environments where daylight is limited or nonexistent, such as caves or polar regions.

 

Its most distinctive feature is the fixed 24-hour bezel and an additional 24-hour hand, which allowed wearers to distinguish between day and night—a vital function for underground or polar expeditions. We have long felt that the 16570 Explorer II remains an underrated Rolex Professional watch.

 

We are delighted to offer this very cool, classically proportioned 40mm sports watch. We love the striking pop of red on the 24-hour hand against the black dial. The case is an excellent example in superb condition, and the brushed fixed 24-hour bezel remains fantastic. The dial is marked SWISS and is flawless.

 

Overall, we think this is a superb example. The 78790 bracelet is in very good condition, with a clasp stamped ‘X10’ and end links marked 501B. The watch comes with its original punched guarantee papers, showing a sale in Switzerland by retailer Bucherer in 1999.

 

The watch has been fully serviced by our watchmaker.

 

This Explorer II is the perfect choice for collectors who appreciate understated Rolex Professional watches—rugged, versatile, and quietly iconic, get in touch to get you this!

 

Specifications:

 

• Rolex Reference 16570 Explorer II

• 40mm steel case

• Serial A590xxxx dating to 1999

• Black SWISS Only signed Dial

• Brushed 24hr steel bezel

• Bracelet reference 78790 with end links 501b

• Punched warrantee paper stating sale 1999 in Swiss, by Bucherer

• Rolex Hang tag with its serial

• Fully serviced by our watchmaker

• One-year mechanical warranty

• Includes a handmade leather watch pouch

• Free worldwide Fedex Priority shipping