Rolex Explorer II 16570 Review | One Month of Ownership Review (Polar)
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- Опубліковано 1 жов 2024
- It has been nearly 12 months since making any significant watch purchase, but after hitting 100,000 subscribers (thank you) I decided to put an end to that streak and ended up purchasing a Rolex Explorer II 16570.
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Congrats Teddy Bulbasaur. Well deserved. Congrats on 100k.
*teddy uses vine whip to heart this comment*
Bulbasaur????
You must be a Pokemon fan boy!
@@blazinmark1 guilty lol
Well Teddy got the reference lol
@@TeddyBaldassarre
I think the 42mm for someone with a 7 & 1/4 wrist has very similar proportions to the 40 in your wrist .
Remember the indexes are larger and so are the hands to match increased case size
Absolutely love the 16570. Bought it 20 years ago and got a few other Rolexes, IWC, Omegas since but I keep coming back to this watch for everyday use. It’s tough enough to take a few knocks and yet presentable enough to slide discreetly under the sleeve without being ostentatious. It’s versatility is unmatched.
I had the 2004 version...didn't like it (felt like a 38mm)...too small on the wrist. Traded it in on the new version. It is an absolute beast.
I bought one too in 2001. It was a gift to myself for closing a big deal when I was an expat in Australia. To this day, it’s easily my favorite watch.
Just bought a 16570 with black dial from 2004. Like the more understated looks compared to other sports models and the 216570.
I have this exact model and must say, it's the guilt-free Rolex. It is worn appropriately in almost any setting, orher than formal or dress up date nights. For whatever reason, it is more accurate than my gold Datejust and Yachtmaster Platinum which obviously costs far more. The Brushed finish allows me to enjoy wearing without being overly concerned about scratches or scuffs. As a pilot, mine is used to actually reference Aeronautical Zulu time. The only thing I don't like about it is the cyclops. I don't like them on any watch. It compromises reading at least 3 indexes near 3:00 for the sake of magnifying and blurring the date. First time I replace the crystal, it will be gone.
How come everyone always shows the white dial version and leaves the black dial variant out in the dark? I find the black dial to be a better execution of the watch.
As mentioned in the video, the black dial is just too familiar -- possibly because many people who may start off or already have a black sub. That certainly is the case for me. Got a black sub and I'm chasing a white dial 16570 as well -- sort of yin and yang.
Yep. A black one with an orange GMT hand. This one is too dressy for me. It is nice. But just not for me.
Oh, okay. I just find with just about any black dialed watch they are easy to dress up or down just by a strap change.
Nice, I would like to see a comparison with the latest model because been a big guy I prefer the 42 mm! Keep the good work my friend!
I will make that happen! Thanks for watching as always brother!
Teddy Baldassarre agree with Francisco. Teddy, make it so!
I have a 7.5’’ wrist and the 16570 wears great on it.
That said, I also have a 42mm seiko kinetic sportura homage to the 216570 and it works well too.
THe 42mm definitely have a more chunky tool watch look to it with the maxi dial and bold orange gmt hand. The 16570 wears more sleeker and abit dressier that the 216570 cannot portray. I have a 7.5'' wrist and am big but the 16570 does well for me
I have a standard 7 inch wrist but chose the 42 because it has a lot more wrist presence IMO
So, I'm not a big fan of Rolex, and not just because I can't afford one. I will say the Explorer has grown on me, though I think it's because everyone on UA-cam seems to be getting and reviewing them lately.
Have that same one in black since 2002. I could sell it today for more than it cost new back then.
I used to consider the Polar but when i went to buy the watch i saw the black and liked the black much more. I know the black would look like GMT and Sub but as long as it looks better to my eyes on my wrist. Even though i tried to love the Polar more for the white dial black markers (i like that configurations so much on paper). But it just didn’t sing to me. I think it might be because of the not-so-white lume that make it look unrefined to me. If the lume was as white as the white dial, i might like it better.
I bought my Polar back in 1999 and has been my everyday wear. I just purchased the Rolex GMT 'Batman' with Oyster bracelet so I'm going to semi-retire the Explorer to my weekends.
you've got the best GMT's on the market!!
Teddy, I purchased a 216570 Polar. Even with my 7.7 wrist I found it uncomfortable and too large. Sold it for the 16570 Polar version. Very happy with the 16570 and it’s my daily wearer.
I really like the sky dweller but honestly I have some Rolex fatigue and also the whole market where everything desirable is either waitlist, greymarket overprice, or super vintage. I rather get a GS or Omega at this point.
Sky Dweller is my grail watch, tho I wish it was like twice cheaper, not so that I could save money, just because wearing it would make me really uncomfortable.
Check out the GMT Master II bezel swap. I actually bought one of these a few years ago because I couldn't afford a 214270 Explorer and the 36mm 114270 felt too small. The thing I didn't like was the fixed 24 hour bezel. I looked into it and the 16700, 16710 GMT Master rotating bezel is a direct fit to this case. No modification necessary. Now I have a Polar Pepsi Explorer Master II.
I am looking for one, but not ready to make the decision just yet. I like this particular model 16570 , enjoy the content provided in your video to understand the differences within this specific model. I see you made your purchase through your affiliate partner Bob' Watches, there are others such as Watch-box, Grey Market Dealers ( Jomas Shop) and a host of many. Either way I will make the purchase or decision when I find the Right Deal, Value and Rolex 16570. BTW congratulations on the 100K Subscribers TB, success with your website and all you do for the Horologist-Collectors and Watch Community. Thank You for all you do, Information Shared and the Contributions !!!
Thanks for the comment Gene! Appreciate the encouragement!
I like the current Rolex Air King because it's so anti-Rolex.
My only regret is not buying it sooner.
I have the exact same and it’s my favorite Rolex model. It’s not just the looks but it’s been the most comfortable Rolex I have ever worn. I bought mine as a like new but preowned watch for $3000 from Japan. This was right before the 42mm model 216570 was out and back then people were going crazy about bigger watches regardless of their wrist size. I am so very happy that I did buy mine at the right time and didn’t wait for the 44mm with Orange gmt hand. Of course I have to mention that right around the same time I sold my 2 tone Blue Dial Submariner date, complete and in perfect condition for only $4000 to my Boss and his constant insistence and pressure on buying my Sub.
Historically, I've not been attracted to Rolex, but I recently ran into a picture of a stainless steel Sky-Dweller with blue dial that shook something within me... And then, the price truly gave me a seizure, lol
I would always take a sky dweller before Daytona.
That's my other grail. It's ludicrous how long they take to come out with a new design, and yet when they do it, it looks like a dang classic. Probably why it takes so long!
Man! Same here! Those are two of the only Rolexes I've found interesting! The skydweller is a unique watch with that bezel used to set it all up! It's brilliant!
Definitely, absolutely stunning piece with an absolutely stunning price
Great video. Got mine June 4th of this year to commemorate a special occasion. I got an 04 polar no holes case and solid end link band. I ended up finding (and overpaying) for a 214270 bracelet and now it is the perfect modern-esque watch. I’ve only worn my sub once since I got the explorer 2. Wear yours in good health.
Great choice man! Thank you, and to you as well!
First Rolex that got me interested was a sub mariner but if I were to own a Rolex, it would be Date Just 36 oyster steel and white gold varient only. This is the only Rolex I need in my collection.
Congrats on 100k! I’m an Omega guy and really only only wear one watch (ref 2531.80). I do like Rolex and if I were to get one, it would be this model. I might lean towards the tritium version. But of course, any of the 3 I’d love to have. Thanks for taking the time to make these videos! I really enjoy watching.
Great choice on the omega. Thanks for watching my videos! Always worth the time to make.
Love my Submariner. It is my favorite Rolex model. However this piece may be second. Very nice watch. Congratulations on your new Explorer II. Thanks for sharing.
My favorite model has to be the day-date in gold.. Thats my grail watch and what I'm planning on buying within the next
2 years.
Hi Teddy, great video on 16570 and best regards from Beijing! I am currently searching for one for myself as well, and I was offered one with random serial number and with engraved rehaut, the seller said its produced in 2011. But, I was told by the internet that the G series is latest model, which was produced from 2009-2010, in 2011 they replaced it with the new model 216570. Do you know which is the case, please?
You are much more professional than the pontiff lol
Dont say bad words.
This is my favourite Rolex by far. Grats on 100k subscribers, well deserved.
It’s the 1999 not the 1998 that moved to the luminova. The 2000 and up are the super lume. Finally the 99 has the quirky movement along with the Swiss only dial. The 99 is the rare one in my opinion.
Great video by the way. This watch is hot because it’s a true tool watch that reminds me of a lensatic navigational compass and most importantly does not look like a Rolex.
Just picked this gem up yesterday. I love it but my wrist size is a 5.75 maxed out on the links I could remove and was left with an ugly uneven bump on the bottom of the bracelet. Ended up reversing the bracelet itself, which worked but now the emblem and clasp are upside down. Anyone else have this issue? Any recommendations? I really don’t want to change out the bracelet.
Congrats Teddy and nice vid as always. I used to only know Rolex as THE watch brand due to its top-notch marketing. As I grew my appreciation to watch more, I easily would pick Omega over Rolex of the same tier for its better engineering and historical value. That said, Explorer series (explorer 2 specifically) really was the watch of "love at first sight" to me. Combining with the history of the first ascent to Mount Everest. It holds a solid seat in my collection.
The only question left is picking 1016 vs 1655 and 16570 vs 261570. And if somehow, you decide to make such a video..... well that's a good day haha
Ed
Love the explorer and Totally wanna see it against the newer version
Great vid as always Ted
Congratulations on your first Rolex and hitting 100,000. Does courtney like your new purchase? We all know she does not like the mix of the hand and dial indices shapes.
Just received my Explorer 214270 about a month ago and already looking at this video. Shame on me.
Dont, I have an 16570 since 2002 and you will love yours.
I'm not a big fan of Rolex and I've always bought Tudors because of how lowkey the brand is. However, the one Rolex I want to buy is exactly the Polar dial 16570. Excellent choice, Teddy.
The only Rolex I ever wanted. Love mine. Classic, simple, clean. People can tell its high end, but don't know what it is.
I think you'll find Richard Hammond is wearing a polar dial 16570 in the last episode of the Grand Tour just out now
Yikes! You taped this 4 years ago and it’s only now that it’s showing up for me. I’ve got my white SMP300 on a new Hirsch Brown hybrid strap, and it gives me heavy Explorer 2 vibes while still being uniquely Omega. Thanks Teddy.
Great video. I bought my GMT when I lived in the same town as Hans wilsdorf, but my fav was always the polar.
Perfect everyday watch in my opinion and these cool shots really show the beauty of it. Congratulations on your purchase!
Thank you my friend!
16570 is the best explorer of all time in my opinion.
Agree 💯 %!
At 3:58 you say the 216570 was rolled out in 2001. That's incorrect. Obviously you must already know this, as you mention the new movement and engraved rehaut for the 16570 was rolled out in the late 2000's. Just wanted to clear that up for anyone who was paying attention. Also, you never disclose the exact year of your particular watch, which I expect to be ~2001-2003 as it is a Swiss Made with holes case.
Although I personally would prefer the Explorer I, I do agree that the polar dial on the Explorer II is the best option. Interesting bit about identifying the different variants too. Keep up the great work!
Also regarding the cyclops comment - I wonder if that is a catch 22 as I feel most people who have an issue with a cyclops do not own a watch with a cyclops on it, and if they did I think most would not mind it. But hey if they don’t like it they won’t get it right. I quite enjoy it though I was apprehensive before I seriously started considering a Rolex.
On another note I desire a no date watch now, too many date windows in the collection. Hodinkee blancpain might be the one. First I need to sell this penis hand hodinkee Oris 😝
Turning 40 in about a year and thinking the Rolex Explorer 2 is the watch to go with. Due to the shortages at the AD, will most likely have to buy used. The 40mm version is going for around $5,500 to $6,000 and the 42mm version is going for around $8,500. Is there any good reason to spend an extra $3,000 to gain 2mm in size? I have an 8" wrist and currently have a 40mm Air King and I like the way it fits.
Great review, thank you!! Purchased my 16570 while living in Ansbach, Germany, mid/late 90s, military aviator. In fact I just got it back from a factory service today. It’s gorgeous, literally like new (highly recommend a factory service)and I’m in love all over again. 😊. Stunning watch that will w/stand the test of time. 👍🏻👍🏻
I'm getting the itch... Rip savings
I did it, waiting for delivery :D
With regards to the 216570’s orange hand which you referred to as playful - I think what is missing here is some deeper discussion on the history of the explorer II and the older model(s) that hand comes from. Everything is done for a reason, especially when it comes to storied watch brands, especially of course Rolex who are not quick to change things. Yes you must do a comparison to right this wrong otherwise I shall have to type comments in all caps.
I own the 216570 polar - I do want to get a 16570 as well as I quite like both. I travel from the UK a hell of a lot, I tend to spend 1/3 of the year in the US and I’m often hopping to countries (just went from LA to Germany... a flieger will be bought) so the GMT hand is a godsend.
Agree that the camera work has drastically improved in this video - not that it was bad before, but it is a marked improvement.
I recently stumbled upon a small channel which to me, had the best outdoor wrist shot production I have seen (from a viewer/consumer perspective) I shall link it later for inspiration
Stay black
Does anyone know where to buy an explorer ii 16550/16570 white dial brand new? I know they are vintage watches but would really like to try buy it first hand. Thanks for any help/advice in advance :)
Congrats Teddy, you definitely deserve it. You're knowledge is deep and your cinematography is candy. 200k will be here before you know it!
Thank you my friend!
For the most part, I dislike Rolexes. Most are gaudy, and it seems every young guy just has to have one. From personal experience, they don't really keep accurate time all that well. Having said that, I must confess I like the Explorer, but only with a leather or NATO strap.
Great work, Teddy! I always enjoy your videos. This is my favorite Exp 2 model. 40mm just fits my wrist a lot better than the current 42mm. Like you, I also prefer the drilled lugs on this model as this piece just goes well with a lot of leather straps! At some point in time, I'll have to own one. Not now as I've spent what I believe is too much on watches the past couple of years! Time to enjoy and bond with what I already have. Cheers!
Great Video Teddy, I am getting ready to pull the trigger also, but a 16570 with tritium dial. My favorite Rolex model is the Datejust, timeless all-rounder watch.
Thank you Abdul. Pull the trigger! haha - I think the datejust is right there for me as well. I sold my old datejust to fund this. Will be adding a more contemporary model next probably.
@@TeddyBaldassarre I think I will get it before someone grabs the perfect one from my grip 😁👍 good luck in your next purchase, maybe something German, Sinn or Nomos 😁
@@TeddyBaldassarre You could do a lot worse than getting the new 126200 or 126234. Awesome proportions.
I like Rolex. I have the 216570 Black as I like its throwback reference to the 1655.
I like the explorer I way more. That's what I'm aiming for someday.
I'll get a polar, but only when they put it back to 40mm, which I hope those Rolex clowns do when they update the movement which they'll do either at Baselworld 2020 or 2021. Otherwise I'll just stick to the Pepsi
Congrats, Teddy-this is a great watch. One of the few Rolex watches that I like. I also like the Skydweller. I hope they come or with a full stainless steel version!
I still prefer the 3,6,9 of the first explorer. Ex. II dial is too much like the submariner.
Maybe they were trying for the submariner look? Dunno... ?
Just found this video with you at over 1M subscribers now Teddy, crazy how time flies!
5-digit Rolex sport watches all day, everyday.
Congrats on the watch, hope you're still enjoying!
Love it as much as the day I bought it.
Funny ti see this video now! I have purchased a Polar and it truly is my favorite Rolex and maybe even the only one I'll ever own. (The coke GMT Master 2 looks nice :p)
Congratulations on 100K Subs and on picking up this grail watch. This is such a cool watch, I can understand the growing appeal. Personally I prefer the Explorer 1, simple and flies under most people's radar. Fantastic review as usual Teddy :)
Thank you Jeff!! Appreciate you watching as always!
Teddy your fingers are your work tools. Stop eating them ! Nicre video, got this watch back from overhaul yesterday, would like to sell it.
14270 is definitely my next one. Love the Explorer line. Congratulations Teddy!!
Thanks Jon!
#1 for value
I don't like Rolex. More to the point, I think Omega makes better watches but Rolex is a better brand. That being said, if I can find an Explorer II with the polar dial in this condition I will jump at it. No one does a white dial better than Rolex, period. The best ice cream makers make amazing vanilla, the best chiefs can make an amazing omelette, and the best watch makers can nail a white dial.
Is a P serial with all paper box , barely used condition for $9k USD fair ? Would prefer to keep it around $8k but not sure if that's possible
Watching this 2 years later and prices are up 50% or more!
Hello. I am not a Rolex lover. The only one that makes me think about having is the explorer ii precisely. Specifically the white dial, aka polar.
Just ordered the exact same model still not sure I shouldn't have got the 42 mm but this came up first and think you're right about the red gmt hand looking more business-like and prefer the way it pops against the polar dial .Good to see you wear it on leather too ,so many never stray from the bracelet ,
116600….my biggest watch regret when I sold mine. I miss it dearly!
Appreciate the Archie Lux Reference LOL
My favorite ROLEX > Explorer II - sporty, reasonable and rare. Love the Polar dial! A fan
Who else is here because of his girlfriend?? Thumbs up,please. On a serious note, white seems more feminine/delicate than black imo but I heard that black doesn't stand a test of time as the lacquer can crack
I also want to put a leather strap on an Explorer II. Are there certain years, perhaps the early 2000s, I should look for, while avoiding others?
3:56 the 216570 debuted in 2011.
That’s an elegant Rolex. I’m in a state of disbelief lol.
Congrats on the watch Teddy👌
I'm surprised you haven't mentioned the 4 unremovable links issue.
I'm also an owner of a polar-dialed 16570. It's been my favourite Rolex for years and I grabbed it for a good price two years ago. These guys are going up in value.
This is a proper tool watch...Rolex getting very blingy with the rest of the range unfortunately
So many better watches out there for the money.. I’d hate to know how the mark up on this boring piece.. love Rolex, but not the explorer II
Gorgeous watch!
My favourite Rolex has to be the datejust it’s simplicity and cleanness makes it beautiful
Amazing watch. Not A Rolex fan boy but this is absolutely on my list. Congrats on purchase and on channel success!
Thanks for watching joe! If I’m seeing right, looks like you’re a pilot? If so, need a gmt of some sort!
@@TeddyBaldassarre A surgeon actually, but if you mean the picture, I know some pilots that I occasionally go up with. Either way, you're totally right about needing a GMT!
I like to congratulate myself for being 1st and may I say splendid channel, splendid watch and keep the splendid content up.👍
Thank you my friend! More content to come!
I don't have a Rolex but I will at some point. I always wanted a sub but I'm starting to think this might be the one.
Seems like owning a Rolex is a very rewarding experience and it shows in the way you talk about it. Congratulations!
Very nice, Teddy! I've been seeing this one on your IG feed as of late. Personally, I would love a tritium 90s Explorer 14270. I just love that thing so much!
I have had mine for 2 weeks now, enjoy it more every day. It was between the 16570 or a sub 16610. Fan of both but the polar just speaks to me more
Mine’s been with me for a decade, six women, an airplane, and much more....faithful friend throughout!
Love my 16610, hope to get a polar dial one day
Great video. And I like how you’re letting us know which TB strap is shown.
hey teddy are there 16570s with chromalight lume?
You still have this watch, Teddy? Let me know if you want to move it. 😊
I want the Explorer I & II. Next Christmas I will purchase the Explorer I my grail watch.
yess go for it
@@IsmaelMartinezPR Thanks for the support my friends 👍🏿👌🏿😉😁✊🏿
I❤️ The Exp2 ,I have had for 2 yrs ,it's great.
I got mine 5 years ago :-D cheers Archie
How’s the lume on this compared to the 2nd edition?
Great video Teddy! Congratulations on 100,000 subscribers! The Rolex is beautiful, but what I want to know is where you are getting the VHS tapes for the watch shots.
I can send you some ) I also have a VHS camera and player which still works)
Hi teddy... Can you clarify on this model. A rare combo of 16570 without rehaut but with a 3186 movement inside. A friend told me that there is very few of this out there. I was able to snag one of them brand new last December of 2007. ☺️
No rehaut but new movement is indeed unusual. You confirmed the new movement by opening the case?
Congrats! I love my Polar 42mm. One of my favorite models I own!
New to the channel! Love the black leather strap, Looking into buying a 2002 polar dial! Anything specific I need to know about the watch as far as swapping out the bracelet goes?
I really like the iconic and unique ref. 1655.
What are the hour markers made of, all the other rolexes have white gold but i see this is black?
The Explorer is REALLY growing on me. I am starting to set money aside for one (which would be my first Rolex). I'll absolutely want that parachrom hair spring since I have had so many issues with my autos getting magnetized when travel overseas. Lately I travel with my Quartz Seamaster 200 to avoid the annoyance.
If you have to set money aside for a Rolex ...don't bother. Spend the money on something you need.
I like the Black 42mm for my taste, but that can be subjective until I see both side by side, Great review TB!
That's what I like is well. I like it because I'm a big guy and it looks great in black and especially on a rubber strap!