Rolex Explorer II 16570 – Black Dial Stainless Steel Watch

The Rolex Explorer II 16570 is a classic stainless-steel sports watch known for its practical 24-hour display, fixed engraved bezel and distinctive black dial. Produced from 1989 into the early 2010s, the reference 16570 represents one of the longest-running generations of the Explorer II and remains highly sought after by collectors who appreciate Rolex’s five-digit sports-watch era.

Rolex Explorer II 16570

The Rolex Explorer II 16570 features a 40mm stainless-steel case paired with Rolex’s Oyster bracelet. Its relatively restrained dimensions give the watch a versatile presence on the wrist while retaining the robust character expected from an Explorer II.

A fixed stainless-steel bezel surrounds the dial and is graduated to 24 hours. Together with the additional 24-hour hand, this system allows the wearer to distinguish a second time zone and provides the practical functionality that defines the Explorer II.

The reference 16570 was produced over many years and underwent several technical and dial variations during its production run. Depending on the individual example, the watch may be equipped with either the Rolex Calibre 3185 or the later Calibre 3186.

Black Dial and 24-Hour Display

This example features the distinctive black Explorer II dial. Luminous hour markers and hands provide legibility in low-light environments, while the additional red 24-hour hand works with the fixed bezel to indicate a second time zone.

A date display is positioned at 3 o’clock and is accompanied by Rolex’s Cyclops lens over the date aperture. The combination of the black dial, red 24-hour hand and engraved steel bezel gives the Rolex Explorer II 16570 its immediately recognizable appearance.

Automatic GMT Movement

The Explorer II 16570 uses a Rolex automatic movement with an independently adjustable 24-hour hand for second-time-zone functionality. Earlier examples use Calibre 3185, while later production examples transitioned to Calibre 3186.

Calibre 3185 operates at 28,800 vibrations per hour and provides approximately 48 hours of power reserve. Later Calibre 3186 examples introduced technical updates including the Parachrom hairspring.

Because the 16570 was produced across multiple years and configurations, the exact calibre should be verified against the individual watch before publication.

Stainless-Steel Case and Oyster Bracelet

The 40mm stainless-steel case provides a durable foundation for the Explorer II’s tool-watch design. The fixed 24-hour bezel is integrated into the case rather than rotating like the bezel on a traditional diving watch.

The watch is fitted with a stainless-steel Oyster bracelet, creating the classic Rolex sports-watch combination of a steel case and integrated three-link bracelet.

The Explorer II 16570 also uses a sapphire crystal, providing scratch resistance and protecting the black dial beneath it.

A Classic Rolex Explorer II

The Rolex Explorer II 16570 occupies an important position in the history of Rolex sports watches. It followed the earlier 16550 and preceded the larger 42mm Explorer II 216570.

Its 40mm case, black or white dial options, fixed 24-hour bezel and GMT functionality make the 16570 particularly appealing to collectors looking for a practical Rolex with the proportions and design language of the brand’s five-digit generation.