The Rolex Explorer II 226570

The Rolex Explorer II 226570 is a modern interpretation of a legendary timepiece, designed for explorers and adventurers. It’s a robust and reliable watch that embodies the spirit of exploration, building upon a rich heritage of timekeeping excellence.

The History and Evolution of the Rolex Explorer II

The Explorer II line traces its roots back to the 1970s, specifically to the needs of explorers venturing into caves and other environments where day and night were indistinguishable. The original Explorer II, released in 1971, featured a 24-hour hand, a crucial tool for navigating in such conditions. This distinctive feature, combined with its robust construction, quickly established the Explorer II as a watch for the adventurous spirit.

The 226570 model, introduced in 2011, represents the latest evolution of the Explorer II. It maintains the core values of its predecessors while incorporating contemporary design elements and technological advancements.

The Design of the Rolex Explorer II 226570

The 226570 is a substantial watch, featuring a 42mm case crafted from Oystersteel, Rolex’s proprietary stainless steel alloy known for its durability and corrosion resistance. The case is topped with a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, ensuring excellent clarity and protection for the dial.

  • Dial Variations: The 226570 is available in various dial colors, including black, white, and polar (a distinctive off-white shade). Each dial features bold Arabic numerals for the hours, providing clear readability in challenging conditions. The hands, including the signature 24-hour hand, are coated with luminescent material for optimal visibility in low-light environments.
  • Bezel Features: The fixed bezel of the 226570 is crafted from polished Oystersteel and features a 24-hour graduated scale. This scale, paired with the 24-hour hand, allows the wearer to track a second time zone with ease. The bezel is designed to be both functional and aesthetically pleasing, seamlessly integrating with the overall design of the watch.

The 24-Hour Hand and Its Relevance to the Explorer II

The 24-hour hand is a defining feature of the Explorer II. Its purpose is to provide an additional timekeeping function, specifically for tracking a second time zone. This is particularly useful for travelers and explorers who frequently cross time zones. The 24-hour hand is distinct from the standard hour hand and moves independently, completing a full rotation every 24 hours. The 24-hour scale on the bezel allows the wearer to read the second time zone directly.

The 24-hour hand’s relevance to the Explorer II’s heritage is deeply rooted in its origins. Early explorers, particularly those working in caves or polar regions, needed a way to distinguish between day and night, even when natural light was scarce. The 24-hour hand provided a reliable solution, allowing them to track time accurately in challenging environments.

Technical Specifications and Movement

The Rolex Explorer II 226570 is a robust and reliable timepiece, designed for adventurers and explorers. It boasts a range of technical specifications that contribute to its functionality and durability. These specifications, along with the innovative Caliber 3285 movement, solidify the Explorer II 226570’s position as a high-performance watch.

Technical Specifications

The Explorer II 226570 possesses a range of features that make it a formidable tool for those who push boundaries. These features include:

  • Case Diameter: 42mm
  • Case Material: 904L stainless steel
  • Crystal: Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating
  • Water Resistance: 100 meters (330 feet)
  • Movement: Caliber 3285, self-winding mechanical
  • Power Reserve: Approximately 70 hours
  • Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, 24-hour display, date
  • Bracelet: Oyster bracelet with Oysterlock safety clasp and Easylink 5mm comfort extension system

Caliber 3285 Movement

The heart of the Explorer II 226570 is the Caliber 3285 movement, a testament to Rolex’s commitment to innovation and precision. This movement is a masterpiece of watchmaking, showcasing a combination of advanced technology and traditional craftsmanship.

  • Accuracy: The Caliber 3285 is known for its exceptional accuracy, maintaining a precision of -2/+2 seconds per day. This level of accuracy is achieved through a combination of factors, including the use of a Parachrom hairspring, a silicon-based escapement, and a high-performance oscillator.
  • Reliability: The movement’s reliability is ensured by its robust construction and rigorous testing. It undergoes extensive testing to ensure its resilience against shocks, magnetic fields, and temperature fluctuations. This ensures the movement’s consistent performance in even the most demanding environments.
  • Innovative Features: The Caliber 3285 incorporates several innovative features that enhance its functionality and performance. These features include:
    • Parachrom hairspring: This hairspring is made from a paramagnetic alloy that is resistant to magnetic fields and temperature variations. This enhances the movement’s accuracy and stability.
    • Silicon escapement: The silicon escapement is extremely durable and resistant to wear. It also contributes to the movement’s high level of precision.
    • High-performance oscillator: The oscillator is the heart of the movement, responsible for regulating its rhythm. The Caliber 3285 uses a high-performance oscillator that is designed for maximum stability and accuracy.

Comparison to Previous Explorer II Models

The Caliber 3285 movement represents a significant advancement over the movements used in previous Explorer II models. Compared to the Caliber 3187 found in the previous generation, the Caliber 3285 offers several improvements:

  • Increased Power Reserve: The Caliber 3285 boasts a power reserve of approximately 70 hours, compared to the 48-hour reserve of the Caliber 3187. This extended power reserve allows the watch to run for longer without winding.
  • Enhanced Accuracy: The Caliber 3285 is significantly more accurate than the Caliber 3187, thanks to its innovative features like the Parachrom hairspring and silicon escapement. This improved accuracy ensures the watch keeps time with greater precision.
  • Improved Durability: The Caliber 3285 is more durable than the Caliber 3187, thanks to the use of silicon components and the movement’s robust construction. This enhanced durability ensures the watch’s resilience in challenging conditions.

The Explorer II 226570

The Rolex Explorer II 226570 is more than just a timepiece; it’s a testament to the spirit of exploration and adventure. Its roots lie in the realm of expeditions and extreme environments, where precision and reliability are paramount.

The Explorer II’s Legacy of Exploration

The Explorer II’s history is intrinsically linked to the world of exploration. It was first introduced in 1971, specifically designed for explorers venturing into caves and other challenging environments. The original Explorer II featured a 24-hour hand, a crucial tool for distinguishing day from night in the absence of sunlight. This innovative feature solidified the watch’s reputation as a companion for those pushing the boundaries of human exploration.

The Explorer II has consistently been the choice of adventurers and explorers throughout its history. From mountaineers conquering the world’s highest peaks to spelunkers navigating subterranean labyrinths, the watch has proven its worth in extreme conditions.

The Explorer II 226570: A Watch for Diverse Explorations

The modern Explorer II 226570 carries on the legacy of its predecessors, embodying the spirit of adventure and exploration. Its robust construction, exceptional durability, and functional features make it an ideal companion for a wide range of explorations.

Mountaineering

The Explorer II 226570 is a natural choice for mountaineering. Its large 42mm case provides a clear and easily readable dial, essential in challenging conditions. The watch’s robust Oyster case, crafted from 904L stainless steel, offers exceptional resistance to impacts and scratches. The Triplock winding crown ensures water resistance up to 100 meters, crucial for navigating snowy and icy terrains.

Spelunking

Spelunking, or cave exploration, requires a watch that can withstand the harsh conditions found underground. The Explorer II 226570 excels in this environment. Its high-contrast black dial and luminous hands provide excellent readability in low-light conditions, essential for navigating dark and confined spaces. The watch’s robust construction ensures it can handle the abrasive conditions found within caves.

Expedition Travel

The Explorer II 226570 is also an excellent choice for expedition travel. Its versatility and reliability make it suitable for a wide range of environments, from scorching deserts to frigid polar regions. The watch’s precise movement ensures accurate timekeeping, essential for maintaining schedules and navigating unfamiliar landscapes. The Explorer II’s durability and water resistance make it a reliable companion for any expedition.

Real-World Examples of the Explorer II’s Use

The Explorer II’s legacy is marked by countless real-world examples of its use in exploration. Here are a few notable instances:

  • Sir Edmund Hillary, the first person to reach the summit of Mount Everest, wore an Explorer II during his historic ascent in 1953. The watch’s accuracy and durability proved invaluable in the challenging conditions of the world’s highest mountain.
  • The Rolex Explorer II has been worn by explorers and adventurers on numerous expeditions, including those to the South Pole, the Amazon rainforest, and the Himalayas.
  • The watch’s robust construction and reliable performance have been tested and proven in extreme environments, solidifying its reputation as a trusted companion for those pushing the boundaries of human exploration.

The Rolex Explorer II 226570: A Collector’s Item

The Rolex Explorer II 226570 holds a special place in the world of watch collecting, captivating enthusiasts with its robust design, impressive functionality, and enduring appeal. This modern iteration of the iconic Explorer II has become a highly sought-after timepiece, attracting both seasoned collectors and newcomers alike.

The 226570’s Rarity and Desirability

The 226570’s desirability stems from a combination of factors, including its limited production, its association with adventure and exploration, and its timeless aesthetic. Rolex’s meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail contribute to the watch’s exceptional quality and enduring value. The 226570 is a testament to Rolex’s legacy of producing timepieces that are both functional and desirable, making it a prized possession for collectors worldwide.

Factors Influencing the 226570’s Value

Several factors contribute to the 226570’s value, including its condition, provenance, and market demand.

Condition

  • The condition of a 226570 is a crucial factor in determining its value. A watch in excellent condition, with minimal signs of wear, will command a higher price than one that shows signs of use.
  • The presence of original accessories, such as the box, papers, and warranty card, can also enhance the value of a 226570.

Provenance

  • The provenance of a 226570, or its history of ownership, can significantly impact its value. A watch with a notable history, such as one owned by a famous explorer or a significant figure in the watch industry, will be more valuable than one with a less distinguished past.

Market Demand

  • Market demand for the 226570 is constantly fluctuating. Factors such as the overall health of the luxury watch market, the availability of new models, and the popularity of specific colorways can all influence the value of a 226570.

The Current Market Value of the 226570, Rolex explorer ii 226570

The current market value of the 226570 varies depending on its condition, provenance, and specific configuration. As a general rule, well-maintained examples of the 226570 can command prices significantly higher than their original retail price. For instance, a pre-owned 226570 in excellent condition can fetch upwards of $10,000, depending on the specific model and its features.

The 226570’s Potential for Appreciation

The 226570 has demonstrated a strong track record of appreciation over time. Given its limited production, its association with adventure and exploration, and its enduring appeal, the 226570 is likely to continue to appreciate in value in the years to come. The watch’s iconic status, combined with its robust build and timeless design, makes it a desirable investment for collectors and enthusiasts alike.

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