Rolex Explorer II Ref. 16570 'Chicchi di Mais' 1996 w/ Box

The Rolex Explorer II Ref. 16570 ‘Polar’ remains one of the most versatile and understated tool watches in Rolex’s catalogue. Originally designed for adventure, the Explorer II features a fixed 24-hour bezel and independently adjustable GMT hand — allowing the wearer to distinguish between day and night or track a second time zone.

This 1996 example features the highly desirable 'Chicchi di Mais; effect — where the tritium ages to a custard yellow colour reminiscent of corn kernels. A detail prized among collectors, this patina adds depth and individuality to an already iconic reference. Presented with its original box, this example balances honest wear with strong mechanical performance.

Rolex Explorer II Ref. 16570 'Chicchi di Mais' 1996 w/ Box

The Rolex Explorer II Ref. 16570 ‘Polar’ remains one of the most versatile and understated tool watches in Rolex’s catalogue. Originally designed for adventure, the Explorer II features a fixed 24-hour bezel and independently adjustable GMT hand — allowing the wearer to distinguish between day and night or track a second time zone.

This 1996 example features the highly desirable 'Chicchi di Mais; effect — where the tritium ages to a custard yellow colour reminiscent of corn kernels. A detail prized among collectors, this patina adds depth and individuality to an already iconic reference. Presented with its original box, this example balances honest wear with strong mechanical performance.

Details
- Maker
  
  Rolex
- Model
  
  Explorer II
- Reference
  
  16570
- Year
  
  1996
- Serial
  
  T82XXXX
- Box & Papers
  
  Yes; Inner & outer box, Papers: No
- Movement
  
  Caliber. 3185, automatic w/ 48-hour power reserve & adjustable 24-hour hand
- Dial & Hands
  
  White 'Polar' dial w/ 18k white gold hour markers & tritium lume; Mercedes hands w/ tritium lume
- Bezel
  
  Fixed, stainless steel
- Crystal
  
  Sapphire
- Bracelet/Strap
  
  Oyster 78360 bracelet w/ 10 links, stainless steel
- Performance
  
  Watch is fully functioning and running at -2 seconds per day
Dimensions
- Diameter: 40mm
- Lug-to-lug: 47mm
- Thickness: 12mm
- Lug width: 20mm
Materials

Stainless steel

One of the defining features of this 1996 Polar Explorer II is the patina of the sought-after 'Chicchi di Mais' effect across the tritium hour markers. Over time, the lume has taken on this custard yellow colour — a patina characteristic that collectors actively look for in mid-1990s 'Polar' 16570 examples
The Ref. 16570 represents a sweet spot in the Explorer II lineage — retaining the slim 40mm case profile and drilled lugs of earlier tool references. It is arguably the most underrated reference in Rolex's sport lineup
The practicality of the Caliber. 3185 GMT movement is undersold. The independently adjustable hour hand allows for dual time zone functionality, and this example is running at an impressive -2 seconds per day

Some scratches throughout the case and bracelet
Minor scuffs on crystal bottom edge
Minor scuff on lower left lug
Minor scuff on crown

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