THE ESSENTIALS

MAKE: ROLEX
MODEL: 16570
YEAR: 1995
BOX/PAPERS: YES/YES
CASE DIAMETER: 40mm
CASE MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
BRACELET MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
MOVEMENT: AUTOMATIC

The Rolex Explorer II, long regarded as an under-appreciated gem in the world of vintage Rolex collecting, has recently witnessed a bit of a renaissance. Early models such as the 1655 'Steve McQueen' and 16550 now command considerable attention among watch enthusiasts.

The ref. 16570 began life in 1989 and had a solid 22-year run. Over this time they had two different caliber movements, tritium, luminova and super luminova dials, holed and solid cases as well as various bracelets. This example boasts a black tritium dial - the lume on the markers and hands have turned into a mellow creamy colour which gives a warm contrast to the pristine black dial. The watch is in fantastic condition, with an unpolished case and the original full link V1 (Jan 96) stamped 78360/501 bracelet which has no perceivable stretch.

To complete the package, the watch comes with its inner and outer boxes and the original guarantee. The movement runs perfectly after a very recent service; -3 s/d, 300 amps with a beat error of 0.3 ms. A wonderful five-digit gem that's hard to beat.