Rolex Explorer II - Polar - 226570
Watch Info
Manufacturer: Rolex
Model: Explorer II "Polar"
Condition: Excellent (Pre-Owned)
Reference: 226570
Year: 2023
Box: Yes
Papers: Yes
Accessories: Complete Set (Inner & Outer Box, New Style Warranty Card dated 2023, Green Superlative Chronometer Hangtag, and Manuals).
Notes: Introduced in 2021 for the 50th anniversary of the Explorer II, the reference 226570 is the current expression of Rolex's dedicated spelunking and adventure watch. The "Polar" white dial remains one of the few white dials in the professional lineup, prized for its high-contrast black PVD-coated markers and signature orange GMT hand.
Condition Assessment
Overall Condition: Pre-Owned - Excellent. This 2023 example has been worn carefully and maintains its original factory geometry. The case and bracelet are unpolished, preserving the sharp edges and brushed finish that define the Explorer II.
Dial, Hands, & Crystal: The "Polar" white dial is pristine. The black-surround markers and hands—filled with long-lasting blue Chromalight luminescence—are flawless. The sapphire crystal is perfect, featuring the signature Cyclops lens over the date at 3 o'clock.
Case & Bezel: The 42mm Oystersteel case is in excellent shape. The fixed 24-hour graduated bezel is crisp, with the black lacquer in the numerals remaining fully intact. There are negligible surface hairlines on the case flanks.
Strap/Bracelet & Clasp: The Oyster bracelet (Ref. 78KB00) is tight with minimal stretch. The Oysterlock safety clasp shows typical light surface swirling from desk-diving. While the watch presents beautifully as-is, a light professional polish would return the brushed and polished surfaces to a "like-new" showroom state.
Technical Specifications
Reference: 226570-0001
Case Size: 42mm
Case Material: Oystersteel (904L)
Dial: Polar White with Black Accents
Movement: Calibre 3285 (Manufacture Rolex, Automatic)
Power Reserve: Approximately 70 Hours
Water Resistance: 100m (330 feet)
Notable Details: Independent rapid-setting hour hand (GMT), fixed 24-hour bezel, Paraflex shock absorbers, Chronergy escapement, and Easylink 5mm comfort extension.
Why the 226570 Polar is the Ultimate Tool Watch
The 226570 is widely considered the most "honest" tool watch in the Rolex catalog. Unlike the GMT-Master II, which has moved toward a more high-polish, luxury aesthetic, the Explorer II retains its brushed steel bezel and rugged 42mm presence. The "Polar" dial is uniquely legible in extreme conditions, originally designed for cave explorers (speleologists) who need to distinguish day from night using the 24-hour hand.
Under the hood is the Calibre 3285, the same high-performance movement found in the current GMT-Master II. This provides a "weekend-proof" 70-hour power reserve and exceptional resistance to shocks and magnetism. For the collector who wants a Rolex that feels like a true piece of equipment rather than jewelry, the Polar Explorer II is the definitive choice. As a 2023 complete set, this watch benefits from the remaining balance of its Rolex international warranty through 2028.
Why Buy from Road & Wrist
We guarantee authenticity on every watch we sell, using detailed photographs to ensure when you receive your watch, there are no surprises!
Authentication Guaranteed: Every watch undergoes rigorous verification—serial number cross-check, movement analysis, and full condition report.
Transparent Condition Reporting: We document every detail—including any light swirls—so you know exactly what you're purchasing.
Secure Shipping: Your watch ships via fully insured, tracked service (e.g., FedEx Overnight) with signature required.
Post-Sale Support: We can facilitate a professional light polish upon request to make this piece "perfect" before it hits your wrist.
Watch Info
Manufacturer: Rolex
Model: Explorer II "Polar"
Condition: Excellent (Pre-Owned)
Reference: 226570
Year: 2023
Box: Yes
Papers: Yes
Accessories: Complete Set (Inner & Outer Box, New Style Warranty Card dated 2023, Green Superlative Chronometer Hangtag, and Manuals).
Notes: Introduced in 2021 for the 50th anniversary of the Explorer II, the reference 226570 is the current expression of Rolex's dedicated spelunking and adventure watch. The "Polar" white dial remains one of the few white dials in the professional lineup, prized for its high-contrast black PVD-coated markers and signature orange GMT hand.
Condition Assessment
Overall Condition: Pre-Owned - Excellent. This 2023 example has been worn carefully and maintains its original factory geometry. The case and bracelet are unpolished, preserving the sharp edges and brushed finish that define the Explorer II.
Dial, Hands, & Crystal: The "Polar" white dial is pristine. The black-surround markers and hands—filled with long-lasting blue Chromalight luminescence—are flawless. The sapphire crystal is perfect, featuring the signature Cyclops lens over the date at 3 o'clock.
Case & Bezel: The 42mm Oystersteel case is in excellent shape. The fixed 24-hour graduated bezel is crisp, with the black lacquer in the numerals remaining fully intact. There are negligible surface hairlines on the case flanks.
Strap/Bracelet & Clasp: The Oyster bracelet (Ref. 78KB00) is tight with minimal stretch. The Oysterlock safety clasp shows typical light surface swirling from desk-diving. While the watch presents beautifully as-is, a light professional polish would return the brushed and polished surfaces to a "like-new" showroom state.
Technical Specifications
Reference: 226570-0001
Case Size: 42mm
Case Material: Oystersteel (904L)
Dial: Polar White with Black Accents
Movement: Calibre 3285 (Manufacture Rolex, Automatic)
Power Reserve: Approximately 70 Hours
Water Resistance: 100m (330 feet)
Notable Details: Independent rapid-setting hour hand (GMT), fixed 24-hour bezel, Paraflex shock absorbers, Chronergy escapement, and Easylink 5mm comfort extension.
Why the 226570 Polar is the Ultimate Tool Watch
The 226570 is widely considered the most "honest" tool watch in the Rolex catalog. Unlike the GMT-Master II, which has moved toward a more high-polish, luxury aesthetic, the Explorer II retains its brushed steel bezel and rugged 42mm presence. The "Polar" dial is uniquely legible in extreme conditions, originally designed for cave explorers (speleologists) who need to distinguish day from night using the 24-hour hand.
Under the hood is the Calibre 3285, the same high-performance movement found in the current GMT-Master II. This provides a "weekend-proof" 70-hour power reserve and exceptional resistance to shocks and magnetism. For the collector who wants a Rolex that feels like a true piece of equipment rather than jewelry, the Polar Explorer II is the definitive choice. As a 2023 complete set, this watch benefits from the remaining balance of its Rolex international warranty through 2028.
Why Buy from Road & Wrist
We guarantee authenticity on every watch we sell, using detailed photographs to ensure when you receive your watch, there are no surprises!
Authentication Guaranteed: Every watch undergoes rigorous verification—serial number cross-check, movement analysis, and full condition report.
Transparent Condition Reporting: We document every detail—including any light swirls—so you know exactly what you're purchasing.
Secure Shipping: Your watch ships via fully insured, tracked service (e.g., FedEx Overnight) with signature required.
Post-Sale Support: We can facilitate a professional light polish upon request to make this piece "perfect" before it hits your wrist.