Rolex Explorer II Polar

Rolex Explorer II Polar for Sale — The White Dial Explorer 2

The "Polar" is the white-dial Rolex Explorer II, and no other steel sports Rolex looks quite like it. A crisp white lacquer dial framed by black-surround hands and hour markers, a fixed 24-hour bezel, and the signature orange GMT hand give the Polar Explorer 2 one of the most instantly recognizable faces in the entire Rolex catalog. Originally built for cave explorers and polar expeditions, it has become a favorite of collectors who want a tool watch with genuine visual character. We buy, sell, and trade the Explorer II Polar in every condition — from new unworn 2026 examples fresh in the box to used pre-owned watches with real history on the wrist — and the live listings above show exactly what's available today.

New Unworn & Used Pre-Owned Rolex Explorer II Polar

Whether you're after a new unworn 2026 Polar 226570 or a used pre-owned 216570 or 16570 at a stronger value, every generation of the white dial Explorer 2 passes through our showroom. The 16570 delivers the classic 40mm case worn from 1989 through 2011; the 216570 introduced the modern 42mm maxi case and bold orange hand for the model's 40th anniversary; and the current 226570 refines the formula with the caliber 3285 movement and a subtly re-proportioned case. Every Polar Explorer II we sell is inspected, authenticated, and photographed in house, and our inventory moves quickly — if you don't see the exact year or configuration you want, we can source it. Explore the full Rolex Explorer collection or browse all Rolex watches for sale.

Every Rolex Explorer II Polar ships fully insured nationwide from our Oak Park, Michigan showroom via FedEx Hold for Pickup at your nearest FedEx location. Call or text 248-422-0909.

Rolex Explorer II Polar FAQ

How much does a Rolex Explorer II Polar cost?

Pricing depends on reference, year, condition, and whether the watch comes with box and papers. Used pre-owned 16570 Polar models typically trade in the $6,000s–$9,000s, 216570 examples generally run $8,000–$11,000, and current-production 226570 watches — especially new unworn 2026 pieces — usually land between $9,500 and $13,000. Browse the live pricing above for exactly what's in stock today.

What's the difference between the 16570, 216570, and 226570 Polar?

The 16570 (1989–2011) is the classic 40mm Explorer 2 with slimmer lugs and a red-accented GMT hand for much of its run. The 216570 (2011–2021) moved to a 42mm maxi case with a bold orange 24-hour hand and larger hands and markers. The 226570 (2021–present) keeps the 42mm size but slims the case and lugs slightly and upgrades to the caliber 3285 with a 70-hour power reserve.

Is the Polar dial more collectible than the black dial Explorer II?

The Polar is the dial most collectors associate with the Explorer II — the white face with black-surround hands is unique to this model and nothing else in the Rolex lineup resembles it. Polar examples consistently command a premium over black dials on the secondary market, and demand for clean full sets is strongest of all.

Is the Rolex Explorer II Polar a good investment?

The Explorer 2 has historically been one of the most affordable ways into a steel professional Rolex, which has left room for appreciation as collectors rediscover the model. Discontinued 16570 Polars have climbed steadily, and the modern 226570 holds value well thanks to constrained supply at retail. As with any watch, condition, originality, and box and papers drive long-term value.

Is it safe to buy a used Rolex Explorer II Polar online from My Watch LLC?

Yes. Every watch we sell goes through a rigorous multi-point inspection before it ever leaves our showroom — authentication by our in-house experts, timekeeping accuracy testing, and pressure testing to verify water resistance. My Watch LLC is a Chrono24 Certified dealer, an eBay Top Rated Seller, and a trusted seller on Reddit's Rolex community, with over 800 five-star Google reviews and nearly 300 Trustpilot reviews. We're not just an online storefront — we operate a physical showroom in Oak Park, Michigan, and we're happy to hop on FaceTime or a video call to show you any timepiece in hand before you buy. Every order ships fully insured via FedEx Hold for Pickup at your nearest FedEx location, so your watch is never left on a doorstep. Questions? Call or text 248-422-0909.

Do you buy and trade Rolex Explorer II Polar watches?

Yes — we buy, sell, and trade every generation of the Explorer 2 Polar daily. If you have one to sell or want to trade toward another piece, start on our Sell My Rolex page for a fast, competitive offer.

Can you source a specific year or full set?

Absolutely. If you're hunting a particular production year, an unpolished 16570, or a complete set with box and papers, reach out through our contact page or call or text 248-422-0909 and we'll track it down.

Complete Reference Index — Rolex Explorer II Polar

16550 (1985–1989) — 40mm transitional reference; the earliest white dial Explorer II, famous for early dials that aged to a cream patina.
16570 (1989–2011) — 40mm, calibers 3185/3186; the longest-running Polar reference.
216570 (2011–2021) — 42mm maxi case, caliber 3187, orange 24-hour hand.
226570 (2021–present) — 42mm, caliber 3285, 70-hour power reserve; the current new unworn Polar.