Rolex Explorer II - References, Prices and Owners' Reviews

My watchmaking passion began in 2021 with the purchase of a Datejust II, fluted bezel and oyster bracelet. I found it magnificent, but after a year and after after-sales service, it seemed too big on my 17 cm wrist. It's a dress watch in my opinion and the proportions are too generous. I sold it, bought other watches (which are/will be presented on Dialicious) but my enthusiasm for this brand remained intact. In 2024, I began to take an interest in a reference that I didn't like at all before (yes, tastes evolve in watchmaking): it was of course the Explo II (ref 16570) and its steel bezel. Youtube videos where their owners rave about this watch finally convinced me: I need this tool watch. The quest and research begins, and will take a good 3 months: indeed this reference was produced between 1991 and 2011 (approximately), and there have been many developments. My choice falls on the latest model produced in 2011 which for me is the right one: the most recent, a lively and shiny steel and not tarnished as can be the case with old refs, case and bracelet never polished, caliber 3135, ROLEX flange... in short, a good deal on Chrono 24 later and here I am the owner. On the wrist, it is magnificent. Sometimes, on the photos or videos, we have the impression that the bezel is dull, but in reality, it is splendid. What can be said about the black color of the dial, which is like lacquered and reflects a maximum of light. The GMT hand brings a color and a little something extra. I find this reference (compared to the modern 42mm) more balanced, and perfect for small-medium wrists. It is thin but ensures a beautiful presence. The only problem for me was the lack of micro-adjustment of the old generation oyster bracelet: I found the solution by buying an Easylink adapted to this reference on the steel reef site that I highly recommend. I think I am the first to reference this black dial version on Dialicious, Enjoy!

Here’s my Rolex Explorer II Polar, in pristine condition. Yeah, I’m pretty picky when it comes to my watches, but this one gets plenty of wrist time—whatever the occasion. It’s not my only Rolex, but it’s easily my favorite. Its unconventional look—cyclops lens aside—makes it one of those underappreciated Rolex models, almost like a hidden gem for brand insiders and adventure lovers alike. One of my little joys? Hitting the trails at San Jacinto Park, not far from home. Sure, a Garmin or Suunto would get the job done, but let’s be real—it’s just not the same vibe! Next time I’m up there, I promise to snap some killer shots with the desert backdrop from the Spitler Peak Trail. But today? Just grinding at work in my green hoodie. There’s something special about a beautiful watch, and this one? Absolutely stunning.

already the owner of several Rolexes, I started looking for a model (Rolex) that met the following specifications: pro + discreet + original. It was natural that I came across the 226570 black dial. Its brushed steel bezel makes it much more discreet than models with a ceramic bezel. The same goes for the fully brushed bracelet (unlike my GMT whose central link is polished). The originality lies in the orange GMT hand with the orange reminder of the "Explorer II" on the dial. I chose the black dial which I find much more discreet and elegant than the white one. It is one of the first Rolex models with anti-reflective treatment on the inner side of the sapphire and it makes a huge difference! Rolex was smart enough not to put this treatment on the outer side because this type of treatment is fragile and does not resist impacts/scratches over time. Its thin and elegant design despite a diameter of 42mm makes it completely compatible with a small wrist (17cm for me)