Rolex Explorer II Ref. 16570 - White 'Polar' Dial w/ Box & Papers

The Rolex Explorer’s core has always been in rugged expedition. While it was originally born out of the Everest celebratory Explorer I - the Explorer II was designed for cave diving. Officially known as spelunking!

While the initial run of Explorer II, the Reference 1655, or 'McQueen' (spoiler: there is no evidence of a connection or that he ever wore one, but the nickname stuck!) had black dials with orange accents, while later iterations like the Ref. 16570 added a white dial to the mix. These are commonly referred to as ‘Polar’ dials and they are among the most striking Rolex dials of the last 40 years or so, due to their monochromatic scheme with gloss white dials and blackened outer white gold indices.

Following the release of the first 'Polar,' the Ref. 16550, was the Ref. 16570. The earliest examples look virtually identical to their predecessor, while small, incremental changes over the years have been identified, making for a surprisingly large variety of options.

The example that we have here, a K-serial example dating to circa 2001, is amongst the last of the 'drilled lug' Explorer IIs just before Rolex phased them out for a cleaner, more modern look. What makes this piece, as well as P-serial and Y-serial examples interesting, is that they utilize the solid-end link bracelets. So, you've got the convenience and historic appeal of the drilled lugs, with the updated and more robust endlinks.

The condition is outstanding. Very, very lightly previously polished, it shows only faint wear with excellent, correct finishing throughout, with a flawless dial, matching handset, and outstanding 24-hr bezel. It is accompanied by a box, COSC hangtag, and punched papers dating to 2002.

Short of the earliest 'Chicchi Di Mais' and 'Cream' variants, this is perhaps the most sought-after variant by collectors and are surprisingly hard to come by.