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ROLEX EXPLORER II Ref. 216570 – Black Dial - Stainless Steel - Box & Papers 2019 - New-Like Condition - Unpolished

A superb example of the Rolex Explorer II Ref. 216570, featuring the highly sought-after black dial, presented in new-like condition and accompanied by its original Rolex box and papers dated 2019.

The Ref. 216570 represents an important chapter in the history of the Explorer II. Introduced by Rolex in 2011 to celebrate the model’s 40th anniversary, it brought the Explorer II into the modern era with a larger 42 mm Oystersteel case, a distinctive Maxi dial and the return of the iconic orange 24-hour hand, a direct visual link to the legendary first-generation Explorer II Ref. 1655.

The story of the Explorer II began in 1971, when Rolex introduced the model for explorers, speleologists and adventurers working in environments where distinguishing day from night could become impossible. Its defining feature was the 24-hour display, allowing the wearer to determine whether it was day or night even when underground or in polar conditions.

Over the decades, the Explorer II evolved while maintaining this distinctive identity. The 2011 Ref. 216570 marked one of its most significant transformations: the case increased from 40 mm to 42 mm, legibility was enhanced with larger indices and hands, and the orange 24-hour hand returned as a tribute to the original Explorer II.

The 216570 was produced from 2011 until 2021, making it the final Explorer II generation to use the Calibre 3187 before Rolex introduced the successor Ref. 226570 with Calibre 3285. Its combination of the 42 mm case, black dial, steel 24-hour bezel and unmistakable orange hand gives it a strong personality that is instantly recognizable.

As a discontinued reference, the 216570 has become an appealing choice for collectors who appreciate the combination of modern Rolex engineering and the unmistakable heritage of the original Explorer II.

This 2019 example, complete with box and papers and presented in new-like and unpolished condition, is an excellent opportunity to acquire a very well-preserved example of one of Rolex’s most distinctive professional sports watches.

This 216570 is accompanied by:

- original presentation box and outer box

- original warranty card, Germany 2019

- Explorer II manual

- guarantee manual

- green leather card holder

- chronometer tag

- original purchase invoice

"A modern Rolex tool watch with genuine expedition heritage, built for adventure, yet equally at home in any collection."