The Rolex Explorer II, a robust and dependable tool watch designed for exploration and adventure, boasts a rich history spanning several generations. Understanding these generations is crucial for both collectors and prospective buyers, as it directly impacts the watch's value, features, and overall aesthetic. While many aspects contribute to a watch's authenticity and desirability, the dial, particularly the lume markers and their composition, provides a compelling starting point for assessing any Explorer II, especially when considering its age and provenance.
This article will delve into the various generations of the Rolex Explorer II, focusing on key distinguishing features, price points across different markets and conditions, and providing a framework for understanding the value of these coveted timepieces.
Authenticity: Starting with the Dial
Assuming the dial is original, it's the cornerstone of authenticating a Rolex Explorer II. The earliest versions of the reference 16570, produced from 1989 to 2011, offer a clear indicator of their age through the lume material used. These early models utilize tritium lume, easily identifiable by the inscription "SWISS – T<25" subtly printed at the six-o'clock position on the dial. The "T<25" signifies that the tritium lume contains less than 25 microcuries of radioactive material, meeting the safety standards at the time of manufacture.
The tritium lume itself exhibits a characteristic creamy, yellowish patina over time. This patina is a natural consequence of the lume's radioactive decay and is a highly sought-after characteristic among collectors. It's important to note that while a patina is desirable, an uneven or unnatural-looking patina can indicate a restoration or a fake. The original tritium lume is surrounded by white gold hour markers, contributing to the overall luxurious feel of the watch. These details, combined with the overall condition of the dial – the absence of blemishes, discoloration, or re-luming – are essential in determining the authenticity and value of the watch.
Later generations of the Explorer II, notably the reference 216570 (2011-2021) and the current reference 226570 (2021-present), utilize Super-LumiNova, a non-radioactive luminescent material. Super-LumiNova offers brighter and longer-lasting luminescence compared to tritium, but lacks the warm, aged glow associated with tritium-lumed dials. The absence of the "SWISS – T<25" inscription is a clear indicator of these later models.
Rolex Explorer II Generations: A Comparative Overview
The evolution of the Explorer II can be broadly categorized into the following generations, each with distinct characteristics:
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