Rolex Explorer II black SEL b&p

Introduced in 1971, the Rolex Explorer II was conceived as a professional instrument for environments where day and night lose meaning—cave exploration, polar expeditions, and extreme research missions. Unlike the Explorer I, the Explorer II introduced a fixed 24-hour bezel and an additional GMT hand, allowing the wearer to instantly distinguish day from night. It was never meant to be elegant; it was meant to work.

The reference 16570 represents the Explorer II at its most balanced and mature stage. Produced from the late 1980s until 2011, it retained the classic 40 mm proportions while benefiting from modern technical upgrades, most notably the calibre 3185. The black dial configuration is the most understated and functional expression of the model: high contrast, perfect legibility, zero excess. The orange GMT hand provides immediate visual orientation without compromising the tool-watch character.

This Z-series example dates to 2006 ,sold in 2008 and is offered in as new condition, an increasingly rare circumstance for this reference. Preserved case geometry, flawless dial, and sharp details confirm minimal wear. The watch is further elevated by the presence of its original box and papers, placing it firmly in collector-grade territory. A modern Rolex tool watch with true professional DNA, long-term usability, and growing historical relevance.