The Rolex Explorer II, reference 16570, holds a special place in the hearts of many watch enthusiasts. Its robust build, practical functionality, and iconic design have cemented its status as a modern classic. Within the already desirable 16570 lineage, however, exists a particularly elusive variant: the "Swiss Only" dial. This article delves deep into the nuances of this rare watch, exploring its history, distinguishing features, value, and place within the broader context of the Rolex Explorer II family.
The key to understanding the rarity of the 16570 "Swiss Only" dial lies in a seemingly minor detail – the absence of the "SWISS" and "T SWISS MADE T" markings flanking the "ROLEX" at the six o'clock position. These markings, present on the vast majority of 16570 models, indicate the presence of tritium lume, a self-luminous material used by Rolex until 1998. That year marked a significant shift in Rolex's luminescence technology, with the adoption of Luminova. The "Swiss Only" dials represent the transitional period, a brief window where Rolex was phasing out tritium and hadn't yet fully incorporated the new Luminova-related markings. These watches are therefore considered transitional pieces, bridging the gap between two distinct eras in Rolex's luminescence history. This transitional nature, coupled with the relatively short production run, contributes significantly to their rarity and desirability among collectors.
The Rolex 16570: A Quick Overview
Before diving deeper into the "Swiss Only" variant, let's establish a baseline understanding of the Rolex Explorer II 16570. This reference, produced from 1989 to 2011, is characterized by its 40mm stainless steel case, a size that remains highly popular today. Its robust construction, water resistance to 100 meters, and highly legible dial make it suitable for a range of activities, from everyday wear to more demanding adventures. The iconic GMT hand, featuring a distinct arrowhead shape, is a hallmark feature, offering a second time zone functionality. The fixed bezel, typically in black or white, features 24-hour markings, enhancing the GMT functionality. The movement, a caliber 3185, is a highly reliable and robust automatic movement known for its accuracy and longevity. This movement, an evolution of the earlier 3085, is a workhorse and the foundation of the 16570's reputation for dependability. The date window at 3 o'clock completes the classic Explorer II design.
Rolex 16570 Dimensions and Size:
The Rolex 16570 boasts a 40mm case diameter, which has become a widely appreciated size for many wrist sizes. Its lug-to-lug distance is approximately 47-48mm, and the thickness is around 12mm. These dimensions make it a versatile watch suitable for various wrist sizes and styles. The slightly larger size compared to its predecessor, the 16550, offered improved legibility and practicality. This balanced size contributes significantly to the watch's enduring appeal. The relatively substantial weight also contributes to a feeling of quality and robustness on the wrist.
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