The year 2021 marked a significant moment in the history of Rolex's iconic Explorer II. While not technically "discontinued" in the sense that it vanished from existence, the previous generation reference, the ref. 16570 and its variations, quietly exited the Rolex catalog, making way for its successor, the ref. 226570. This transition, though seamless for many, sparked considerable interest and discussion amongst collectors and enthusiasts, prompting questions about the legacy of the outgoing model and the merits of its replacement. This article delves deep into the 2021 shift, exploring the features of the discontinued Explorer II, comparing it to its successor, and examining its current value and collectible status.
2021 Rolex Explorer II Review: A Legacy of Exploration
The ref. 16570 Explorer II, produced from 1989 to 2021, holds a special place in Rolex history. It solidified the Explorer II's reputation as a robust, reliable, and highly legible tool watch, perfectly suited for challenging environments. Its design, while evolving subtly over the years, remained largely consistent, reflecting Rolex's philosophy of refinement and enduring quality. Key features of the ref. 16570 included:
* The iconic 24-hour GMT hand: This hand, a defining characteristic of the Explorer II, provided a crucial second time zone function, invaluable for navigating in low-light conditions or across different time zones. Its bright orange color ensured high visibility, a critical aspect for its intended use in exploration and adventurous activities.
* Fixed bezel with 24-hour graduations: Complementing the GMT hand, the fixed bezel facilitated easy reading of a second time zone, even in the dark. The robust, unidirectional bezel ensured against accidental adjustments that could compromise timekeeping accuracy.
* Robust 3186 movement: The ref. 16570 housed the calibre 3186 movement, a highly reliable and accurate automatic movement known for its robustness and longevity. Its COSC certification guaranteed its precision and performance.
* Oyster case: The iconic Oyster case, synonymous with Rolex, provided superior water resistance and protection against the elements. Its robust construction ensured the watch could withstand the rigors of exploration and daily wear.
* Various dial variations: The ref. 16570 was available with different dial variations, including the classic black dial, and highly sought-after white or polar dials. These variations catered to different preferences and added to the watch's collectibility.
The ref. 16570, therefore, represented the culmination of years of refinement in the Explorer II lineage, a watch that successfully blended functionality with timeless elegance. Its discontinuation, while expected given Rolex's regular product updates, marked the end of an era for many loyal fans.
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