The Rolex Explorer II, particularly the black dial variant, holds a special place in the hearts of watch enthusiasts. Its rugged design, robust functionality, and undeniable heritage make it a highly sought-after timepiece. This article delves into the world of the Rolex Explorer II black on black, focusing on the iconic 16570 model, its history, key features, and its position within the broader Rolex Explorer II lineage. We'll also explore its current market value and what makes this particular reference so desirable. The example of a 2000 Rolex Explorer II 16570 Black Dial Stainless Steel 40mm GMT Date Watch listed on Chrono24 for $7,590 provides a perfect case study for our exploration.
The Rolex Explorer II: A History of Exploration
Unlike the original Explorer, designed for mountaineering expeditions, the Explorer II was conceived with cave exploration in mind. Introduced in 1971 as reference 1655, it featured a crucial addition: a 24-hour hand. This independent hand, crucial for differentiating between AM and PM in low-light conditions, became a defining characteristic of the Explorer II and a crucial tool for spelunkers navigating the depths of caves. The original 1655, with its distinctive orange 24-hour hand, remains a highly collectible piece today.
Subsequent iterations refined the design, leading to the reference 16570, the subject of our primary focus. Produced from 1989 to 2011, the 16570 represented a significant evolution. While retaining the core functionality of its predecessor, the 16570 incorporated a more modern aesthetic and improved movement. The change to a sapphire crystal, improved water resistance, and the subtle adjustments to the case design contributed to the 16570’s enduring appeal. The black dial, a staple throughout the 16570’s production run, provided a clean, legible canvas for the time and date display, perfectly complementing the watch’s utilitarian purpose.
The 16570 Black Dial: A Timeless Design
The Rolex Explorer II 16570 with a black dial embodies understated elegance and rugged durability. Its 40mm stainless steel case is perfectly proportioned, comfortable on the wrist, and capable of withstanding the rigors of daily wear. The matte black dial, free from excessive ornamentation, ensures maximum legibility, a crucial feature for a tool watch. The luminous hour markers and hands, combined with the clear date window at 3 o'clock, guarantee effortless time-telling in any condition. The fixed bezel, with its engraved 24-hour markings, works in tandem with the 24-hour hand, allowing for the tracking of a second time zone – an invaluable feature for travelers and explorers alike.
The specific example highlighted, the 2000 Rolex Explorer II 16570 Black Dial Stainless Steel 40mm GMT Date Watch listed on Chrono24, represents a particularly desirable example. Being produced in the year 2000, it falls within the prime production years of the 16570, avoiding potential issues associated with early or late production runs. The $7,590 price point reflects the current market value for well-maintained examples of this reference, demonstrating its continued desirability among collectors and enthusiasts.
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