Rolex Explorer II (Modern 42mm) vs Rolex Explorer II (Polar)
Side-by-side at a glance. Click a watch above to open the full reference page.
| Rolex 226570 | Rolex 16570 | |
|---|---|---|
| Model | Explorer II (Modern 42mm) | Explorer II (Polar) |
| Caliber | Rolex Cal. 3285 -- in-house automatic GMT, 28,800bph, 70h PR, 31j; Chronergy escapement, Parachrom hairspring; successor to 3185 with increased PR | Rolex Cal. 3185 -- in-house automatic GMT, 28,800bph, 48h PR, 31j; bidirectional rotor, Parachrom hairspring; predecessor to current 3285 |
| Case size | 42mm | 40mm |
| Lug-to-lug | 46.5mm | 47mm |
| Years produced | 2021–present | 1989–2011 |
| Brand tier | luxury | luxury |
| Era | modern | vintage |
| Movement tier | In-house manufacture | In-house manufacture |
| Market median (excellent / full-set) | n/a | n/a |
| Typical range | n/a | n/a |
| Confidence | low | low |
| Categories | gmt-worldtime, sport | gmt-worldtime, sport |
| Editorial | yes | yes |
| Typical price (2026) | $8,500 – $11,500 | n/a |
| Collector note | n/a | best value: The "polar dial" white version is an Explorer II that many collectors prefer to current production at a secondary price still below new retail equivalent. |
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