Rolex
Explorer II Black Dial Fullset - with papers

Rolex Explorer II ref. 16570  A serial (circa 1999–2000)  40 mm – stainless steel – fixed 24-hour steel bezel – black dial – Rolex calibre 3185 automatic GMT – Oyster bracelet – with original papers

Controlled adventure, worn every day.

A-serial, produced around 1999–2000, this 40 mm Explorer II 16570 combines a deep black dial with practical GMT functionality. Delivered with its original papers, it represents the professional tool watch that has become a modern classic, powered by the Rolex calibre 3185.Collectors often reach for it without hesitation. Not to impress, but to live with it. The black dial absorbs the morning light, the seconds hand glides steadily, and the 24-hour hand quietly reminds you of another time zone. In an airport, in a meeting, on a weekend away, it remains the same: precise, legible, reliable. The fixed 24-hour steel bezel, free from ceramic shine or excess, reinforces its instrument character. On the Oyster bracelet, it feels robust; under a jacket cuff, almost invisible. This functional discretion is what appeals to knowledgeable enthusiasts: a Rolex that speaks of use before status.

The Explorer II was introduced in 1971 as a watch designed for explorers and speleologists, featuring a 24-hour display to distinguish day from night in extreme environments. The reference 16570, launched in the late 1980s and produced until 2011, marks a key generation. It adopted a 40 mm case, sapphire crystal and an independently adjustable GMT movement. The A serial, corresponding to the late 1990s, represents a mature phase of the model before later evolutions towards larger diameters.The 40 mm stainless steel Oyster case offers balanced and versatile proportions. The fixed steel bezel engraved with 24 hours defines the watch’s functional identity. The black dial, highly legible, features applied indexes and a contrasting 24-hour hand for second time zone reading. The date at 3 o’clock is magnified by the Cyclops lens on the sapphire crystal.

This Explorer II is powered by the Rolex calibre 3185, an automatic GMT movement renowned for robustness and precision. It allows independent adjustment of the hour hand, making time zone changes straightforward. Beating at 28,800 vibrations per hour and equipped with bidirectional self-winding, it reflects the professional Rolex calibres of the late twentieth century. Original water resistance was rated at 100 metres, suitable for versatile daily use; as with any pre-owned watch, testing is recommended before immersion.The stainless steel Oyster bracelet reinforces the utilitarian coherence of the watch, ensuring stability and comfort while maintaining a sober line. On the wrist, the 16570 feels particularly well balanced: neither oversized nor delicate, suitable for a wide range of wrists. On a male wrist, it expresses technical horological culture; on a female wrist, it can become a confident sport-chic statement.

This example, bearing an A-serial number, is offered with its original papers, a detail valued by collectors. The aesthetic condition is described precisely at the time of sale: the case and bracelet show normal signs of careful wear consistent with age. The movement has been checked to ensure proper operation. Transparency regarding condition and set is central to our approach.At Mostra, each watch is selected for its coherence, authenticity and horological value. Pieces are checked and authenticated, then examined in our in-house watchmaking workshop before being offered for sale. We provide personalised guidance, drawing on over 40 years of experience in high-end pre-owned watches. Our reputation is built on verified 5-star Google reviews and an exceptional 3-year warranty, rare on the pre-owned market. Mostra, renowned for its service and client experience, has been recognised in the specialised press as a leading expert in pre-owned watches.