Rolex Explorer II 16570 Black Dial (1998) A Collector's Guide
Introduction to the Rolex Explorer II 16570
The Rolex Explorer II 16570 with a black dial is a highly sought-after timepiece, especially models from 1998 featuring tritium lume and in excellent condition. This particular reference holds a special place in the hearts of watch collectors and enthusiasts due to its blend of functionality, durability, and classic design. Introduced in the late 1980s as the successor to the 1655, the 16570 maintained the Explorer II's distinctive 24-hour bezel and GMT function, catering to explorers and adventurers who needed to distinguish between day and night in challenging environments. The 16570 boasts a robust stainless steel construction, a reliable automatic movement, and a highly legible dial, making it a practical choice for everyday wear while retaining its collectibility. The tritium lume used in earlier models adds a unique character as it ages, developing a warm, creamy patina that is highly prized by collectors. The Explorer II 16570's design strikes a perfect balance between sporty and elegant, making it versatile enough for any occasion. Its 40mm case size is ideal for a wide range of wrist sizes, and its iconic design elements, such as the Mercedes hands and the cyclops lens over the date window, are instantly recognizable as Rolex hallmarks. For those looking to delve deeper into the intricacies of this model, understanding its history, production variations, and key features is crucial. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a novice enthusiast, the Rolex Explorer II 16570 offers a compelling blend of horological excellence and timeless appeal.
Key Features and Specifications
The Rolex Explorer II 16570 is celebrated for its robust design and practical functionalities, making it a standout model in Rolex's lineup. The key features of this watch include its 40mm stainless steel case, which offers excellent durability and a comfortable fit on the wrist. The fixed 24-hour bezel is a signature element, allowing the wearer to track a second time zone when used in conjunction with the 24-hour hand. This feature is particularly useful for travelers, pilots, and anyone who needs to keep track of time in different locations. The black dial provides a stark contrast for the luminous hour markers and hands, ensuring optimal legibility in various lighting conditions. The tritium lume used in the 1998 models is a significant point of interest for collectors, as it ages gracefully, developing a unique patina over time. The watch is powered by the Rolex Caliber 3185, a reliable and accurate automatic movement known for its GMT function and chronometer certification. This movement ensures precise timekeeping and has a power reserve of approximately 50 hours. The sapphire crystal protects the dial from scratches and damage, while the cyclops lens over the date window at 3 o'clock enhances readability. The stainless steel Oyster bracelet is both durable and comfortable, featuring a folding clasp that provides a secure fit. Water resistance is another crucial specification, with the Explorer II 16570 offering a depth rating of 100 meters (330 feet), making it suitable for swimming and snorkeling. The combination of these features makes the Rolex Explorer II 16570 a highly functional and collectible timepiece, perfect for both everyday wear and special occasions. Understanding these specifications helps potential buyers appreciate the craftsmanship and engineering that went into creating this iconic watch.
The Significance of the 1998 Model
The 1998 Rolex Explorer II 16570 holds particular significance for collectors, primarily due to its use of tritium as the luminous material. Tritium, a radioactive isotope of hydrogen, was used by Rolex for lume until the late 1990s when it was replaced by Super-LumiNova. The significance of the 1998 model lies in the fact that tritium lume ages uniquely, developing a warm, creamy patina over time, which is highly prized by watch enthusiasts. This aging process gives each watch a distinctive character, making it a one-of-a-kind piece. Collectors often seek out tritium dials for their vintage aesthetic appeal and the sense of history they carry. Apart from the tritium lume, the 1998 model also falls within a period where Rolex was producing high-quality movements and cases, ensuring the watch's reliability and longevity. The Caliber 3185 movement, used in the 16570 during this period, is known for its robustness and accuracy. Furthermore, the 1998 model represents a sweet spot in the production run of the 16570, balancing modern functionality with vintage charm. Watches from this era often exhibit a level of craftsmanship that is highly regarded by collectors. The 1998 Explorer II 16570 also benefits from the classic design elements that define the model, such as the 40mm case, the 24-hour bezel, and the highly legible dial. These features, combined with the unique patina of the tritium lume, make the 1998 model a standout choice for collectors looking to add a distinctive and historically significant timepiece to their collection. Understanding the nuances of this particular year can greatly enhance the appreciation and value of the watch.
Condition and Collectibility
The condition of a Rolex Explorer II 16570 is a crucial factor in determining its collectibility and value. An Explorer II 16570 in excellent condition, particularly a 1998 model with tritium lume, commands a premium in the vintage watch market. Collectors meticulously assess various aspects of the watch to determine its condition, including the dial, case, bracelet, and movement. A dial with an even and appealing patina is highly desirable, as it indicates the natural aging of the tritium lume. However, dials with excessive damage or signs of moisture intrusion can significantly reduce the watch's value. The case should be well-preserved, with sharp edges and minimal scratches or dents. Polishing can alter the original shape of the case, so unpolished examples are often preferred by collectors. The bracelet should be in good condition, with minimal stretch and all original links. The clasp should function correctly and show minimal wear. The movement is another critical area of assessment. A well-maintained movement ensures accurate timekeeping and long-term reliability. Regular servicing is essential for keeping the movement in optimal condition. Collectibility is also influenced by factors such as the presence of original boxes and papers, as these add to the watch's provenance and historical significance. Complete sets, including the original warranty papers, booklets, and tags, are highly sought after by collectors. The rarity of certain variations, such as those with specific dial configurations or production dates, can also impact collectibility. Ultimately, a Rolex Explorer II 16570 in excellent condition represents a valuable and desirable addition to any collection, offering a blend of horological excellence and timeless appeal. Understanding the key factors that contribute to condition and collectibility is essential for both buyers and sellers in the vintage watch market.
How to Identify a Genuine 1998 Model
Identifying a genuine 1998 Rolex Explorer II 16570 requires a keen eye and attention to detail. Given the popularity of this model, counterfeit versions are prevalent, making it essential to know the key characteristics of an authentic timepiece. One of the primary indicators is the dial. A genuine 1998 model will feature tritium lume, which should exhibit a warm, creamy patina due to its natural aging process. The lume plots should be evenly colored, and the dial text should be crisp and clear. Counterfeit dials often have poorly printed text or uneven lume application. The case is another critical area to inspect. The stainless steel case should have sharp, well-defined edges and a consistent finish. The reference number (16570) and serial number are engraved between the lugs at 6 o'clock and 12 o'clock, respectively. These engravings should be clean and precise. The case back should be smooth and free of any markings, except for the Rolex logo and reference number on the inside. The bezel is a distinctive feature of the Explorer II, and a genuine bezel will have precisely engraved 24-hour markings. The numbers should be evenly spaced and aligned. The movement is the heart of the watch, and a genuine 1998 Explorer II 16570 will be powered by the Rolex Caliber 3185. This movement is known for its reliability and accuracy. While it may not be possible to inspect the movement without opening the watch, a watchmaker can verify its authenticity. The bracelet and clasp should also be examined. The stainless steel Oyster bracelet should be sturdy and well-constructed, with a secure clasp. The clasp should be stamped with the Rolex logo and the reference number. Finally, the presence of original boxes and papers can provide additional assurance of authenticity. However, these can also be faked, so it is essential to verify all other aspects of the watch as well. By carefully inspecting these key features, you can significantly reduce the risk of purchasing a counterfeit Rolex Explorer II 16570.
Market Value and Investment Potential
The market value of a Rolex Explorer II 16570, particularly a 1998 model with tritium lume in excellent condition, has seen a steady increase in recent years, making it a compelling investment. Several factors contribute to its investment potential. Firstly, the Explorer II 16570 is a highly sought-after reference among collectors due to its classic design, robust construction, and practical functionality. The tritium lume found in the 1998 models adds a unique element of collectibility, as the warm patina that develops over time is highly prized. The condition of the watch plays a significant role in its market value. Examples in excellent condition, with minimal wear and tear, original parts, and well-preserved dials, command higher prices. The presence of original boxes and papers can also significantly increase the value, as these add to the watch's provenance and historical significance. Market trends and demand also influence the value of the 16570. The vintage watch market has seen a surge in interest in recent years, with collectors actively seeking out iconic models like the Explorer II. Limited production numbers and the increasing rarity of tritium dials further contribute to the upward trajectory of prices. Economic factors, such as inflation and currency fluctuations, can also impact the market value of luxury watches. As a tangible asset, a Rolex Explorer II 16570 can serve as a hedge against inflation and economic uncertainty. Investing in a vintage Rolex requires careful research and due diligence. Consulting with reputable watch dealers and experts can provide valuable insights into market trends and pricing. Understanding the nuances of the model, such as variations in dials and production dates, can also help in making informed investment decisions. Overall, the Rolex Explorer II 16570 represents a solid investment opportunity for watch collectors and enthusiasts, offering a blend of horological excellence and potential appreciation in value.
Caring for Your Rolex Explorer II 16570
Proper care for your Rolex Explorer II 16570 is essential to maintain its value and ensure its longevity. Like any fine mechanical timepiece, the Rolex Explorer II 16570 requires regular maintenance and careful handling to keep it in optimal condition. One of the most crucial aspects of care is regular servicing. Rolex recommends servicing your watch every 5-7 years, depending on usage. During a service, a trained watchmaker will disassemble the movement, clean and lubricate the parts, and replace any worn components. This ensures that the movement continues to function accurately and reliably. Cleaning the watch regularly is also important. Use a soft cloth to wipe the case and bracelet, removing any dirt, dust, or fingerprints. For more thorough cleaning, you can use a mild soap and water solution, but make sure to dry the watch thoroughly afterward. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the finish. Water resistance is another key consideration. While the Explorer II 16570 is water-resistant to 100 meters (330 feet), it is essential to ensure that the crown is properly screwed down before exposing the watch to water. Over time, the gaskets that provide water resistance can degrade, so it is advisable to have them checked and replaced during servicing. Protecting the watch from extreme temperatures, shocks, and magnetic fields is also important. High temperatures can affect the lubrication of the movement, while shocks can damage delicate components. Strong magnetic fields can interfere with the accuracy of the watch. When not wearing your Explorer II 16570, it is best to store it in a safe place, such as a watch box or a soft pouch. This will protect it from scratches and dust. By following these care tips, you can ensure that your Rolex Explorer II 16570 remains a cherished timepiece for many years to come, preserving its value and beauty.
Conclusion: Why the 16570 Remains a Timeless Classic
In conclusion, the Rolex Explorer II 16570 remains a timeless classic for numerous compelling reasons. Its enduring appeal stems from a combination of its robust design, practical functionality, and historical significance. The 16570's blend of sporty aesthetics and elegant details makes it a versatile timepiece suitable for any occasion. The 40mm stainless steel case, the fixed 24-hour bezel, and the highly legible dial are all hallmarks of the model's enduring design. The tritium lume found in the 1998 models adds a unique vintage charm, with the warm patina that develops over time making each watch a one-of-a-kind piece. The Explorer II 16570's functionality is another key factor in its lasting appeal. The GMT function, which allows the wearer to track a second time zone, is particularly useful for travelers and adventurers. The robust construction and water resistance make it a reliable companion for everyday wear. The Rolex Caliber 3185 movement, known for its accuracy and reliability, further enhances the watch's functionality. The historical significance of the 16570 also contributes to its collectibility. As the successor to the 1655, it represents a pivotal chapter in the Explorer II lineage. The 1998 models, with their tritium dials, hold a special place in the hearts of collectors due to their unique aging characteristics. The market value and investment potential of the 16570 have seen a steady increase in recent years, reflecting its desirability among collectors and enthusiasts. Its timeless design, robust construction, and historical significance make it a solid investment for the future. In summary, the Rolex Explorer II 16570 is more than just a watch; it is a symbol of adventure, precision, and timeless elegance. Its enduring appeal ensures that it will remain a classic for generations to come.
