About this watch

Preloved Rolex Explorer II 16570 'Polar' 40MM 1996 This previously polished 1997 Rolex Explorer II 16570 Polar remains in great condition, showing light wear consistent with careful use. The stainless steel 40mm case retains sharp edges and solid proportions, with light hairlines visible around both sides under close inspection. The Oyster bracelet is equally well-preserved, exhibiting some light surface hairlines on the clasp and links but no stretch or notable damage. The white Polar dial is in very good condition, displaying bright tone and strong contrast against the applied black surrounds. The hands are in very good shape, showing no corrosion or discoloration, with lume ageing evenly across both dial and handset. The fixed 24-hour bezel remains clearly defined, and the sapphire crystal is clean and scratch-free. Tested across four positions on the Witschi WAIO, the calibre 3185 returns a mean daily rate of +7.1 seconds, a result that sits just out of the COSC chronometer tolerance of -4/+6 seconds per day and speaks well of a movement now approaching its fourth decade of service. Beat error measures 0.2 milliseconds, indicating the impulse is well centred and the lever geo…