- In 1989, Rolex unveiled the Explorer II ref. 16570. Over a distinguished 22-year run, two variants were offered: one with a black dial, the other featuring a lustrous white ‘Polar’ dial, as seen on the present example.

- Among Rolex cognoscenti, ref. 16570 is regarded as one of the marque’s most undervalued timepieces. Not only does it embody the technical virtuosity for which Rolex is renowned, but also a refined aesthetic that pays tribute to a spirit of adventure and exploration.

- The present example dates to circa 1998, as evidenced by the ‘U’ serial designation. Featuring luminous markers that have developed a beautifully patinated creamy hue over decades of age, the captivating dial exhibits a rare soft grey tint seldom observed on white dials, lending it the moniker ‘Polar’.

- During the evolution of the reference, various luminous materials were used, from tritium on earlier examples made in circa 1989 to 1997 indicated by the “SWISS-T<25” at 6 o’clock position (present example), to later examples bearing Luminova with “SWISS” only insignia from circa 1998-1999, and the final transition with Super-Luminova material indicated with “SWISS MADE”.

- Preserved in excellent condition, the present timepiece is accompanied by its full set of original accessories. With the launch of the new 42mm Rolex Explorer II ref. 226570 in 2021, this earlier 40mm reference represents an opportunity to acquire an emblematic exploration icon of the past.